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THE MARK OF ZOEEO

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The pouiilas J'airt)afiMs Future,

The Mark ot Zorro.

POUGLAS FAIHBAXKS AS DON DIEGO VEGA.

The Mark of Zorro

JOHNSTON McCULLEY

Published Serially under the title of
" THE CURSE OF CAPISTRANO "

ILLUSTRATED WITH SCENES
FROM THE PHOTOPLAY

GROSSET & DUNLAP

PUBLISHERS NEW YORK

Made io the United State* of Amenca

COPTEIGHT, 1924, BY

GROSSET & DUNLAP

To
DOUGLAS FAIRBANKS

THE ''ZOERO" OF THE SCREEN

CONTENTS

APTEB

Pedro, the Boaster .

•

PAGB
1

On the Heels of the Storm

:•

III

Se^or Zorro Pays a Visit

•

. 16

Swords Clash and Pedro Explains

. 21

A Ride in the Morning .

. 31

Diego Seeks a Bride

. 37

VII

A Different Sort of Man .

. 46

VIII

Don Carlos Plays a Game .

. 54

The Clash of Blades

. 63

A Hint at Jealousy

. 72

Three Suitors ....

. 79

XII

A Visit

. 87

XIII

Love Comes Swiftly

• •

XIV

Captain Ram6n Writes a Letter

. 109

At the Presidio ....

. 114

XVI

The Chase That Failed

123

XVII

Sergeant Gonzales Meets a Friend .

129

XVIII

Don Diego Returns .

135

XIX

Captain Ram6n Apologizes .

140

Don Diego Shows Interest .

148

XXI

The Whipping ....

153

XXII

Swift Punishment .

160

xxin

More Punishment .

167

XXIV

At the Hacienda of Don AiiF^ANDRO .

174

XXV

A League Is Formed

• •

185

XX\^I

An Understanding . . >

• •

191

XXVII

Orders for Arrest .

• •

200

Vll

VUl

CHAPTEB

XXVIII

XXIX

XXX

XXXI

XXXII

XXXIII

XXXIV

XXXV

XXX^T

XXXVII

XXXVIII

XXXIX

CONTEXTS

The Outrage

Don Diego Feels III

The Sigx of the Fox

The Rescue

Close Quarters

Flight and Pltisuit .

The Blood of the Pl'lidos

The Clash of Blades Again

All Against Them .

The Fox at Bay

The ]\Ian Unmasked

''jMeal Ml^h and Goat's jMilk!'*

PAGE

203
217
225
231
238
248
256
262
277
284
290
297

THE MARK OF ZORRO

CHAPTER I

PEDRO, THE BOASTER

Again the sheet of rain beat against the roof of
red Spanish tile, and the wind shrieked like a soul
in torment, and smoke puffed from the big fireplace
as the sparks were showered over the hard dirt
floor.

'* ^Tis a night for evil deeds!" declared Sergeant
Pedro Gonzales, stretching his great feet in their
loose boots toward the roaring fire and grasping
the hilt of his sword in one hand and a mng filled
with thin wine in the other. *^ Devils howl in the
wind and demons are in the raindrops! 'Tis an
evil night, indeed — eh, senorf

*^It is!" the fat landlord agreed hastily; and he
made haste, also, to fill the wine mng again, for
Sergeant Pedro Gonzales had a temper that was
terrible when aroused, as it always was when wine
was not forthcoming.

**An evil night!" the big sergeant repeated, and
drained the mug without stopping to draw breath,
a feat that had attracted considerable attention in
its time and had gained the sergeant a certain
amount of notoriety up and down El Camino Eeal,

2 THE MARK OF ZORRO

as they called the highway that connected the mis-
sions in one long chain.

Gonzales sprawled closer to the fire, and cared
not that other men thus were robbed of some of
its warmth. Sergeant Pedro Gonzales often had
expressed his belief that a man should look out for
his own comfort before considering others ; and be-
ing of great size and strength, and having much
skill with the blade, he found few who had the
courage to declare that they believed otherwise.

Outside the wind shrieked and the rain dashed
against the ground in a solid sheet. It was a typical
February storm for southern California. At the
missions the frailes had cared for the stock and
had closed the buildings for the night. At every
great hacienda big fires were burning in the houses.
The timid natives kept to their little adobe huts,
glad for shelter.

And here in the little pueblo of Reina de Los
Angeles, where, in years to come, a great city would
grow, the tavern on one side of the plaza housed
for the time being men who would sprawl before
the fire until the dawn rather than face the beating
rain.

Sergeant Pedro Gonzales, by virtue of his rank
and size, hogged the fireplace, and a corporal and
three soldiers from the presidio sat at table a little
in rear of him, drinking their thin wine and playing
at cards. An Indian servant crouched on his heels
in one corner, no neophyte who had accepted the
religion of the frailes, but a gentile and renegade*

PEDRO, THE BOASTER 3

For this was in the day of the decadence of the
missions, and there was little peace between the
robed Franciscans who followed in the footsteps of
the sainted Junipero Serra, who had founded the
first mission at San Diego de Alcala, and thus made
possible an empire, and those who followed the
politicians and had high places in the army. The
men who drank wine in the tavern at Reina de Los
Angeles had no wish for a spying neophyte about
them.

Just now conversation had died out, a fact that
annoyed the fat landlord and caused him some fear ;
for Sergeant Pedro Gonzales in an argument was
Sergeant Gonzales at peace; and unless he could
talk the big soldier might feel moved to action and
start a brawl.

Twice before Gonzales had done so, to the great
damage of furniture and men's faces; and the land-
lord had appealed to the comandoMte of the pre-
sidio^ Captain Ramon, only to be informed that the
captain had an abundance of troubles of his o^m,
and that running an inn was not one of them.

So the landlord regarded Gonzales warily, and
edged closer to the long table, and spoke in an
attempt to start a general conversation and so avert
trouble.

*^They are saying in the pueblo/' he announced,
**that this Senor Zorro is abroad again.''

His words had an effect that was both unexpected
and terrible to witness. Sergeant Pedro Gonzales
hurled his half -filled wine mug to the hard dirt floor,

4 THE MAEK OF ZORRO

straight ened suddenly on the bencli, and crashed a
ponderous fist down upon the table, causing wine
mugs and cards and coins to scatter in all direo^
tions.

The corporal and the three soldiers retreated a
few feet in sudden fright, and the red face of the
landlord blanched; the native sitting in the corner
started to creep toward the door, having determined
that he preferred the storm outside to the big ser-
geant's anger.

^'Seiior Zorro, eh?" Gonzales cried in a terrible
voice. ^^Is it my fate always to hear that name?
Senor Zorro, eh? Mr. Fox, in other words! He
imagines, I take it, that he is as cunning as one.
By the saints, he raises as much stench!''

Gonzales gulped, turned to face them squarely,
and continued his tirade.

*'He runs up and down the length of El Camino
Real like a goat of the high hills ! He wears a mask,
and he flashes a pretty blade, they tell me. He uses
the point of it to carve his hated letter ^'Z'' on the
cheek of his foe! Ha! The Mark of Zorro they
are calling it ! A pretty blade he has, in truth ! But
I cannot swear as to the blade — I never have seen it.
He will not do me the honor of letting me see it!
Senor Zorro 's depredations never occur in the vicin-
ity of Sergeant Pedro Gonzales! Perhaps this
Seiior Zorro can tell us the reason for that? Ha!''

He glared at the men before him, threw up his
upper lip, and let the ends of his great black mus-
tache bristle.

PEDRO, THE BOASTER 5

**They are calling him the Curse of Capistrano
now,'' the fat landlord observed, stooping to pick
up the wine mug and cards and hoping to filch a
coin in the process.

** Curse of the entire highway and the whole mis-
sion chain!'' Sergeant Gonzales roared. *^A cut-
throat, he is! A thief! Ha! A common fellow
presuming to get him a reputation for bravery be-
cause he robs a hacienda or so and frightens a few
women and natives! Senor Zorro, eh? Here is
one fox it gives me pleasure to hunt! Curse of
Capistrano, eh? I know I have led an evil life, but
I only ask of the saints one thing now — that they
forgive me my sins long enough to grant me the
boon of standing face to face with this pretty high-
wayman ! ' '

** There is a reward — " the landlord began.

*^You snatch the very words from my lips!" Ser-
geant Gonzales protested. ^^ There is a pretty re-
ward for the fellow's capture, offered by his excel-
lency the governor. And what good fortune has
come to my blade ? I am away on duty at San Juan
Capistrano, and the fellow makes his play at Santa
Barbara. I am at Reina de Los Angeles, and he
takes a fat purse at San Luis Rey. I dine at San
Gabriel, let us say, and he robs at San Diego de
Alcala! A pest, he is! Once I met him — "

Sergeant Gonzales choked on his wrath and
reached for the vvdne mug, which the landlord had
filled again and placed at his elbow. He g-ulped
down the contents.

6 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

*^Well, he never has visited us here/^ the landlord
said with a sigh of thanksgiving.

*'Good reason, fat one! Ample reason! We have
a presidio here and a few soldiers. He rides far
from any presidio, does this pretty Senor Zorro!
He is like a fleeting sunbeam, I grant him that —
and with about as much real courage!"

Sergeant Gonzales relaxed on the bench again,
and the landlord gave him a glance that was full
of relief, and began to hope that there would be
no breakage of mugs and furniture and men's faces
this rainy night.

*'Yet this Senor Zorro must rest at times — he
must eat and sleep, '* the landlord said. *^It is cer-
tain that he must have some place for hiding and
recuperation. Some fine day the soldiers will trail
him to his den."

^^Ha!" Gonzales replied. *^0f course the man
has to eat and sleep ! And what is it that he claims
now? He says that he is no real thief, by the saints !
He is but punishing those who mistreat the men of
the missions, he says. Friend of the oppressed,
eh? He left a placard at Santa Barbara recently
stating as much, did he not? Ha! And what may
be the reply to that? The frailes of the missions
are shielding him, hiding him, giving him his meat
and drink! Shake down a robed fray and you'll
find some trace of this pretty highwayman's where-
abouts, else I am a lazy civilian!"

**I have no doubt that you speak the truth," the
landlord replied. *'I put it not past the frailes to

PEDEO, THE BOASTER 7

do such a thing. But may this Senor Zorro never
visit us here!''

^^And why not, fat one?" Sergeant Gonzales cried
in a voice of thunder. ^^Am I not here? Have I
not a blade at my side? Are you an owl, and is
this daylight that you cannot see as far as the end
of your puny, crooked nose? By the saints — ■"

**I mean," said the landlord quickly and with
some alarm, ^^that I have no wish to be robbed."

*'To be — robbed of what, fat one? Of a jug of
weak wine and a meal? Have you riches, fool?
Ha ! Let the fellow come ! Let this bold and cun-
ning Sehor Zorro but enter that door and step be-
fore us ! Let him make a bow, as they say he does,
and let his eyes twinkle through his mask ! Let me
but face the fellow for an instant — and I claim the
generous reward offered by his excellency!"

*^He perhaps is afraid to venture so near the
presidio/' the landlord said.

* ^ More wine ! ' ' Gonzales howled. * ^ More wine, fat
one, and place it to my account! When I have
earned the reward, you shall be paid in full. I prom-
ise it on my word as a soldier! Ha! Were this
brave and cunning Senor Zorro, this Curse of Cap-
istrano, but to make entrance at that door now — "
The door suddenly was opened!

CHAPTER n

ON THE HEELS OF THE STOBM

In came a gust of wind and rain and a man with
it, and the candles flickered and one was extin-
guished. This sudden entrance in the midst of the
sergeant's boast startled them all; and Gonzales
drew his blade halfway from its scabbard as his
words died in his throat. The native was quick
to close the door again to keep out the wind.

The newcomer turned and faced them; the land-
lord gave another sigh of relief. It was not Senor
Zorro, of course. It was Don Diego Vega, a fair
youth of excellent blood and twenty-four years,
noted the length of El Camino Real for his small
interest in the really important things of life.

*'Ha!" Gonzales cried, and slammed his blade
home.

^'Is it that I startled you somewhat, senores?"
Don Diego asked politely and in a thin voice, glanc-
ing around the big room and nodding to the men
before him.

**If you did, senor, it was because you entered on
the heels of the storm,'' the sergeant retorted.
' ^ 'Twould not be your own energy that would startle
any man!"

*^H-m!" grunted Don Diego, throwing aside his

sombrero and flinging off his soaked serape. *'Your

ON THE HEELS OF THE STORM 9

remarks border on the perilous, ray raucous friend."
^^Can it be that you intend to take me to task?"
^^It is true," continued Don Diego, ^'that I do
not have a reputation for riding like a fool at risk
of my neck, fighting like an idiot with every new-
comer, and playing the guitar under every woman's
window like a simpleton. Yet I do not care to have
these things you deem my shortcomings flaunted in
my face!"

Ha!" Gonzales cried, half in anger.
We have an agreement, Sergeant Gonzales, that
we can be friends, and I can forget the wide differ-
ence in birth and breeding that yawns between us
only as long as you curb your tongue and stand my
comrade. Your boasts amuse me, and I buy for
you the wine that you crave — it is a pretty arrange-
ment. But ridicule me again, senor, either in public
or private, and the agreement is at an end. I may
mention that I have some small influence — "

**Your pardon, cahallero and my very good
friend!" the alarmed Sergeant Gonzales cried now.
*^You are storming worse than the tempest outside,
and merely because my tongue happened to slip.
Hereafter, if any man ask, you are nimble of wit
and quick with a blade, always ready to fight or to
make love. You are a man of action, cahallero!
Ha! Does any dare doubt it?"

He glared around the room, half drawing his blade
again, and then he slammed the sword home and
threw back his head and roared with laughter, and
then clapped Don Diego between the shoulders ; and

10 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

the fat landlord hurried with more wine, knowing
well that Don Diego Vega would stand the score.

For this peculiar friendship between Don Diego
and Sergeant Gonzales was the talk of El Camino
Real. Don Diego came from a family of blood that
iniled over thousands of broad acres, countless herds
of horses and cattle, great fields of grain. Don
Diego, in his ovm right, had a hacienda that was
like a small empire, and a house in the pueblo also,
and was destined to inherit from his father more
than thrice what he had now.

But Don Diego was unlike the other full-blooded
youths of the times. It appeared that he disliked
action. He seldom wore his blade, except as a mat-
ter of style and apparel. He was damnably polite
to all women and paid court to none.

He sat in the sun and listened to the wild tales
of other men — and now and then he smiled. He was
the opposite of Sergeant Pedro Gonzales in all
things, and yet they were together frequently. It
was as Don Diego had said — ^he enjoyed the ser-
geant's boasts, and the sergeant enjoyed the free
wine. What more could either ask in the way of a
fair arrangement?

Now Don Diego went to stand before the fire and
dry himself, holding a mug of red wine in one hand.
He was only medium in size, yet he possessed health
and good looks, and it was the despair of proud
duenas that he would not glance a second time at
the pretty senoritas they protected, and for whom
they sought desirable husbands.

ON THE HEELS OF THE STORM 11

Gonzales, afraid that he had angered his friend
and that the free wine would be at an end, now
strove to make peace.

^'Cdballero, we have been speaking of this noto-
rious Senor Zorro," he said. '*We have been re-
garding in conversation this fine Curse of Capis-
trano, as some nimble-witted fool has seen fit to
term the pest of the highway."

*^What about him?" Don Diego asked, putting
down his wine mug and hiding a yawn behind his
hand. Those who knew Don Diego best declared
he yawned tenscore times a day.

^^I have been remarking, cahallero/' said the ser-
geant, *Hhat this fine Seiior Zorro never appears in
my vicinity, and that I am hoping the good saints
will grant me the chance of facing him some fine
day, that I may claim the reward offered by the
governor. Senor Zorro, eh? Ha!"

**Let us not speak of him," Don Diego begged,
turning from the fireplace and throwing out one
hand as if in protest. "Shall it be that I never
hear of anything except deeds of bloodshed and
violence? Would it be possible in these turbulent
times for a man to listen to words of wisdom re-
garding music or the poets?"

"Meal-mush and goat's milk!" snorted Sergeant
Gonzales in huge disgust. "If this Senor Zorro
wishes to risk his neck, let him. It is his own neck,
by the saints! A cutthroat! A thief! Ha!"

"I have been hearing considerable concerning his
work," Don Diego went on to say. "The fellow,

12 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

no doubt, is sincere in his purpose. He has robbed
none except officials who have stolen from the mis-
sions and the poor, and punished none except brutes
who mistreat natives. He has slain no man, I un-
derstand. Let him have his little day in the public
eye, my sergeant."
*^I would rather have the reward!"
' * Earn it ! " Don Diego said. * * Capture the man ! ' '
*^Ha! Dead or alive, the governor's proclama-
tion says. I myself have read it."

* * Then stand you up to him and run him through,
if such a thing pleases you," Don Diego retorted.
*^And tell me all about it afterward — but spare me
now ! ' '

* ^ It ^\dll be a pretty story ! ' ' Gonzales cried. * ' And
you shall have it entire, cab alter o, word by word!
How I played with him, how I laughed at him as
we fought, how I pressed him back after a time and
ran him through — "

** Afterward — ^but not now!" Don Diego cried, ex-
asperated. ^'Landlord, more wine! The only man-
ner in which to stop this raucous boaster is to make
his wide throat so slick with wine that the words
cannot climb out of it!"

The landlord quickly filled the mugs. Don Diego
sipped at his wine slowly, as a gentleman should,
while Sergeant Gonzales took his in two grea't gulps.
And then the scion of the house of Vega stepped
across to the bench and reached for his sombrero
and his serape.

*'What?" the sergeant cried. **You are going to

ON THE HEELS OF THE STOEM 13

leave us at such an early hour, cahallero? You are
going to face the fury of that beating storm T'

* * At least, I am brave enough for that, "Don Diego
replied, smiling. **I but ran over from my house
for a pot of honey. The fools feared the rain too
much to fetch me some this day from the hacienda.
Get me one, landlord."

**I shall escort you safely home through the
rain!" Sergeant Gonzales cried, for he knew full
well that Don Diego had excellent wine of age there.

*^You shall remain here before the roaring fire!"
Don Diego told him firmly. * ^I do not need an escort
of soldiers from the presidio to cross the plaza. I
am going over accounts with my secretary, and pos-
sibly may return to the tavern after we have fin-
ished. I wanted the pot of honey that we might
eat as we worked."

**Ha! And why did you not send that secretary
of yours for the honey, cahallero? Why be wealthy
and have servants, if a man cannot send them on
errands on such a stormy night?"

^'He is an old man and feeble," Don Diego ex-
plained. **He also is secretary to my aged father.
The storm would kill him. Landlord, serve all here
with wine and put it to my account. I may return
when my books have been straightened."

Don Diego Vega picked up the pot of honey,
wrapped his serape around his head, opened the
door, and plunged into the storm and darkness.

*' There goes a man!" Gonzales cried, flourishing
his arms. *^He is my friend, that cahallero j and I

14 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

-would have all men know it! He seldom wears a
blade, and I doubt whether he can use one — but he
is my friend! The flashing dark eyes of lovely
senoritas do not disturb him, yet I swear he is a
pattern of a man!

^^ Music and the poets, eh? Ha! Has he not the
right, if such is his pleasure ? Is he not Don Diego
Yega? Has he not blue blood and broad acres and
great storehouses filled with goods? Is he not lib-
eral? He may stand on his head or wear petticoats,
if it please him — ^yet I swear he is a pattern of a
man ! ' '

The soldiers echoed his sentiments since they
were drinking Don Diego's wine and did not have
the courage to combat the sergeant's statements,
anyway. The fat landlord served them with an-
other round since Don Diego would pay. For it was
beneath a Yega to look at his score in a public tav-
ern, and the fat landlord many times had taken
advantage of this fact.

^'He cannot endure the thought of violence or
bloodshed," Sergeant Gonzales continued. '^He is
as gentle as a breeze of spring. Yet he has a firm
wrist and a deep eye. It merely is the cahallero^s
manner of seeing life. Did I but have his youth and
good looks and riches — Ha! There would be a
stream of broken hearts from San Diego de Alcala
to San Francisco de Asis!"

**And broken heads!" the corporal offered.

**Ha ! And broken heads, comrade ! I would rule
the country! No youngster should stand long in

ON THE HEELS OF THE STORM 15

my way. Out with blade and at them ! Cross Pedro
Gonzales, eh? Ha! Through the shoulder — neatly!
Ha! Through a lung!'^

Gonzales was upon his feet now, and his blade
had leaped from its scabbard. He swept it back
and forth through the air, thrust, parried, lunged,
advanced and retreated, shouted his oaths and
roared his laughter as he fought with shadows.

^^That is the manner of it!'' he screeched at the
fireplace. **What have we heref Two of you
against one? So much the better, senores! "We love
brave odds ! Ha ! Have at you, dog ! Die, hound !
One side, poltroon!"

He reeled against the wall, gasping, his breath
almost gone, the point of his blade resting on the
floor, his great face purple with the exertion and
the wine he had consumed, while the corporal and
the soldiers and the fat landlord laughed long and
loudly at this bloodless battle from which Sergeant
Pedro Gonzales had emerged the unquestioned vic-
tor.

**Were — ^were this fine Senor Zorro only before
me here and now!" the sergeant gasped.

And again the door was opened suddenly and a
man entered the inn on a gust of the storm!

CHAPTER in

SE^OE ZOKKO PAYS A VISIT

The native hurried forward to fasten tlie door
against the force of the wind, and then retreated
to his corner again. The newcomer had his back
toward those in the long room. They could see that
his sombrero was pulled far down on his head, as
if to prevent the wind from whisking it away, and
that his body was enveloped in a long cloak that was
wringing wet.

With his back still toward them, he opened the
cloak and shook the raindrops from it, and then
folded it across his breast again as the fat landlord
hurried forward, rubbing his hands together in ex-
pectation, for he deemed that here was some
cahallero off the highway who would pay good coin
for food and bed and care for his horse.

When the landlord was within a few feet of him
and the door the stranger whirled around. The
landlord gave a little cry of fear and retreated with
speed. The corporal gurgled deep down in his
throat; the soldiers gasped; Sergeant Pedro Gon-
zales allowed his lower jaw to drop and let his eyes
bulge.

For the man who stood straight before them had
a black mask over his face that effectually concealed

SENOR ZOESO PAYS A VISIT 17

his features, and through the two slits in it his eyes
glittered ominously.

^^Ha! What have we here?'' Gonzales gasped,
finally, some presence of mind returning to him.

The man before them bowed.

^^Seiior Zorro, at your service!" he said.

^^By the saints! Senor Zorro, eh?'' Gonzales
cried.

^'Do you doubt it, senor f

*^If you are indeed Senor Zorro, then have you
lost your wits!" the sergeant declared.

*^What is j:he meaning of that speech?"

*^You are here, are you not? You have entered
the inn, have you not? By all the saints, you have
walked into a trap, my pretty highwayman ! ' '

*^Will the senor please explain?" Senor Zorro
asked. His voice was deep and held a peculiar ring.

*^Are you blind? Are you without sense?" Gon-
zales demanded. **Am I not here?"

'^And what has that to do with it?"

**Am I not a soldier?"

**At least you wear a soldier's garb, senor/'

*^By the saints, and cannot you see the good cor-
poral and three of our comrades? Have you come
to surrender your wicked sword, senor? Are you
finished playing at rogue?"

Senor Zorro laughed not unpleasantly, but he did
not take his eyes from Gonzales.

^^Most certainly I have not come to surrender,"
he said. **I am on business, senor J'

** Business?" Gonzales queried.

18 THE MARK OF ZORRO

*^Four days ago, senor, you brutally beat a native
who bad won your dislike. The affair happened on
the road between here and the mission at San
Gabriel.''

^'He was a surly dog and got in my way! And
how does it concern you, my pretty highwayman?"

**I am the friend of the oppressed, senor, and I
have come to punish you.''

**Come to — to punish me, fool? You punish me?
I shall die of laughter before I can run you through !
You are as good as dead, Seiior Zorro! His ex-
cellency has offered a pretty price for your carcass !
If you are a religious man, say your prayers! I
would not have it said that I slew a man without
giving him time to repent his crimes. I give you
the space of a hundred heart-beats."

**You are generous, sefiorj but there is no need
for me to say my prayers."

**Then must I do my duty," said Gonzales, and
lifted the point of his blade. *' Corporal, you will
remain by the table, and the men, also. This fellow
and the reward he means are mine ! "

He blew out the ends of his mustache and ad-
vanced carefully, not making the mistake of under-
estimating his antagonist, for there had been certain
tales of the man's skill with a blade. And when he
was within the proper distance he recoiled sud-
denly, as if a snake had warned of a strike.

For Senor Zorro had allowed one hand to come
from beneath his cloak, and the hand held a pistol,
most damnable of weapons to Sergeant Gonzales.

SEXOB ZORRO PAYS A VISIT 19

**Back, senor!'^ Seiior Zorro warned.

*'Ha! So that is the way of it!'' Gonzales cried.
**You carry that devil's weapon and threaten men
with it ! Such things are for use only at a long dis-
tance and against inferior foes. Gentlemen prefer
the trusty blade."

^^Back, seiior! There is death in this you call the
devil's weapon! I shall not warn again."

*^ Somebody told me you were a brave man," Gon-
zales taunted, retreating a few feet. ^'It has been
whispered that you would meet any man foot to foot
and cross blades ^'ith him. I have believed it of
you. And now I find you resorting to a weapon
fit for nothing except to use against red natives.
Can it be, sefior, that you lack the courage I have
heard you possess?"

Senor Zorro laughed again.

**As to that you shall see presently," he said.
**The use of this pistol is necessary at the present
time. I find myself pitted against large odds in this
tavern, sen07\ I shall cross blades with you gladly
when I have made such a proceeding safe."

**I wait anxiously," Gonzales sneered.

**The corporal and soldiers will retreat to that far
corner," Senor Zorro directed. ^'Landlord, you will
accompany them. The native will go there, also.
Quickly, senores! Thank you! I do not wish to
have any of you disturbing me while I am punish-
ing this sergeant here."

^'Ha!" Gonzales screeched in fury. *'We shall
soon see as to the punishing, my pretty fox!"

20 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

**I shall hold the pistol in my left hand,'' Senor
Zorro continued. *'I shall engage this sergeant with
my right, in the proper manner, and as I fight I shall
keep an eye on the corner. The first move from
any of yon, senores, means that I fire. I am expert
with this you have termed the devil's weapon, and
if I fire some men shall cease to exist on this earth
of onrs. It is understood?"

The corporal and soldiers and landlord did not
take the trouble to answer. Senor Zorro looked Gon-
zales straight in the eyes again, and a chuckle came
from behind his mask.

^'Sergeant, you will turn your back until I can
draw my blade," he directed. **I give you my word
as a cdballero that I shall not make a foul attack."

^^As a cahallerof Gonzales sneered.

*^I said it, senor!'' Zorro replied, his voice ring-
ing a threat.

Gonzales shrugged his shoulders and turned his
back. In an instant he heard the voice of the high-
wayman again.

**0n guard, senor!''

CHAPTER IV

SWOEDS CLASH — AND PEDEO EXPLAINS

Gonzales whirled at the word, and his blade came
up. He saw that Senor Zorro had drawn his sword,
and that he was holding the pistol in his left hand
high above his head. Moreover, Senor Zorro was
chuckling still, and the sergeant became infuriated.
The blades clashed.

Sergeant Gonzales had been accustomed to bat-
tling with men who gave ground when they pleased
and took it when they could, who went this way and
that seeking an advantage, now advancing, now re-
treating, now swinging to left or right as their skill
directed them.

But here he faced a man who fought in quite a
di:fferent way. For Senor Zorro, it appeared, was
as if rooted to one spot and unable to turn his face
in any other direction. He did not give an inch,
nor did he advance, nor step to either side.

Gonzales attacked furiously, as was his custom,
and he found the point of his blade neatly parried.
He used more caution then and tried what tricks he
knew, but they seemed to avail him nothing. He
attempted to pass around the man before him, and
the other's blade drove him back. He tried a re-
treat, hoping to draw the other out, but Senor Zorro
stood his ground and forced Gonzales to attack

22 THE MAEK OF ZORRO

again. As for the Mghwayman, he did naught ex-
cept put up a defense.

Anger got the better of Gonzales then, for he
knew the corporal was jealous of him, and that the
tale of this fight would be told to all the puehlo to-
morrow, and so travel up and down the length of
El Camino Real.

He attacked furiously, hoping to drive Senor
Zorro off his feet and make an end of it. But he
found that his attack ended as if against a stone
wall, his blade was turned aside, his breast crashed
against that of his antagonist, and Senor Zorro
merely threw out his chest and hurled him back half
a dozen steps.

*' Fight, senor!'' Senor Zorro said.

*^ Fight yourself, cutthroat and thief!'' the exas-
perated sergeant cried. ^^ Don't stand like a piece
of the hills, fool ! Is it against your religion to take
a step?"

**You cannot taunt me into doing it," the high-
wayman replied, chuckling again.

Sergeant Gonzales realized then that he had been
angry, and he knew an angry man cannot fight with
the blade as well as a man who controls his temper.
So he became deadly cold now, and his eyes nar-
rowed, and all boasting was gone from him.

He attacked again, but now he was alert, seeking
an unguarded spot through which he could thrust
without courting disaster himself. He fenced as he
never had fenced in his life before. He cursed him-
self for having allowed wine and food to rob him

SWORDS CLASH 23

of his wind. From the front, from either side, he
attacked, only to be turned back again, all his tricks
solved almost before he tried them.

He had been watching his antagonist's eyes, of
course, and now he saw a change. They had seemed
to be laughing through the mask, and now they had
narrowed and seemed to send forth flakes of fire.

^'We have had enough of playing!" Senor Zorro
said. ^'It is time for the punishment!''

And suddenly he began to press the fighting, tak-
ing step after step, slowly and methodically going
forward and forcing Gonzales backward. The tip
of his blade seemed to be a serpent's head with a
thousand tongues. Gonzales felt himself at the
other's mercy, but he gritted his teeth and tried to
control himself and fought on.

Now he was with his back against the wall, but
in such a position that Senor Zorro could give him
battle and watch the men in the corner at the same
time. He knew the highwayman was playing with
him. He was ready to swallow his pride and call
upon the corporal and soldiers to rush in and give
him aid.

And then there came a sudden battering at the
door, which the native had bolted. The heart of
Gonzales gave a great leap. Somebody was there,
wishing to enter. Whoever it was would think it
peculiar that the door was not thrown open instantly
by the fat landlord or his servant. Perhaps help
was at hand.

**We are interrupted, senor ^^ the highwayman

24 THE MAEK OF ZORRO

said. **I regret it, for I will not have the time to
give you the punishment you deserve, and will have
to arrange to visit you another time. You scarcely
are worth a double visit.''

The pounding at the door was louder now. Gon-
zales raised his voice:

^'Ha! We have Seiior Zorro here!''

*' Poltroon!" the highwayman cried.

His blade seemed to take on new life. It darted
in and out ^vith. a speed that was bewildering. It
caught a thousand beams of light from the flicker-
ing candles and hurled them back.

And suddenly it darted in and hooked itself prop-
erly, and Sergeant Gonzales felt his sword torn from
his grasp and saw it go flying through the air.

*'So!" Senor Zorro cried.

Gonzales awaited the stroke. A sob came into
his throat that this must be the end instead of on
a field of battle where a soldier wishes it. But no
steel entered his breast to bring forth his life's
blood.

Instead, Senor Zorro swung his left hand down,
passed the hilt of his blade to it and grasped it
beside the pistol's butt, and with his right he slapped
Pedro Gonzales once across the cheek.

**That for a man who mistreats helpless natives !'*
he cried.

Gonzales roared in rage and shame. Somebody
was trying to smash the door in now. But Senor
Zorro appeared to give it little thought. He sprang
back, and sent his blade into its scabbard like a

SWORDS CLASH 25

flash. He swept the pistol before him and thus
threatened all in the long room. He darted to a
window, sprang upon a bench.

^^ Until a later time, senor!" he cried.

And then he went through the window as a moun-
tain goat jumps from a cliff, taking its covering
with him. In rushed the wind and rain, and the
candles went out.

*' After him!" Gonzales screeched, springing
across the room and grasping his blade again. ^^ Un-
bar the door ! Out and after him ! Remember, there
is a generous reward — "

The corporal reached the door first, and threw
it open. In stumbled two men of the puehlo, eager
for wine and an explanation of the fastened door.
Sergeant Gonzales and his comrades drove over
them, left them sprawling, and dashed into the
storm.

But there was little use in it. It was so dark a
man could not see a distance of a horse's length.
The beating rain was enough to obliterate tracks
almost instantly. Senor Zorro was gone — and no
man could tell in what direction.

There was a tumult, of course, in which the men
of the pueblo joined. Sergeant Gonzales and the
soldiers returned to the inn to find it full of men
they knew. And Sergeant Gonzales knew, also, that
his reputation was now at stake.

^'Nobody but a highwayman, nobody but a cut-
throat and thief would have done it!'' he cried
aloud.

26 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

*^How is that, brave one!'' cried a man in the
throng near the doorway.

*^This pretty Seiior Zorro knew, of course ! Some
days ago I broke the thumb of my sword hand while
fencing at San Juan Capistrano. No doubt the
word was passed to this Senor Zorro. And he visits
me at such a time that he may afterward say he had
vanquished me.''

The corporal and soldiers and landlord stared at
him, but none was brave enough to say a word.

'* Those who were here can tell you, senores/'
Gonzales went on. ^'This Senor Zorro came in at
the door and immediately drew a pistol — devil's
weapon — from beneath his cloak. He presents it at
us, and forces all except me to retire to that corner.
I refused to retire.

*^ ^Then you shall fight me,' says this pretty high-
wayman, and I draw my blade, thinking to make an
end of the pest. And what does he tell me then?
*"We shall fight,' he says, *and I will outpoint you,
so that I may boast of it afterward. In my left
hand I hold the pistol. If your attack is not to my
liking, I shall fire, and aftei'ward run you through,
and so make an end of a certain sergeant.' "

The corporal gasped, and the fat landlord was
almost ready to speak, but thought better of it when
Sergeant Gonzales glared at him.

*' Could anything be more devilish?" Gonzales
asked. *^I was to fight, and yet I would get a devil's
chunk of lead in my carcass if I pressed the attack.
TTas there ever such a farce? It shows the stufi

SWORDS CLASH 27

of whicli this pretty highwayman is made. Some
day I shall meet him when he holds no pistol — and
then—"

^'But how did he get away?" some one in the
crowd asked.

^^He heard those at the door. He threatened me
with the devil's pistol and forced me to toss my
blade in yonder far corner. He threatened ns all,
ran to the window, and sprang through. And how
could we find him in the darkness or track him
through the sheets of rain? But I am determined
now! In the morning I go to my Captain Ramon
and ask permission to be absolved from all other
duty, that I may take some comrades and run down
this pretty Senor Zorro. Ha! We shall go fox-
hunting ! ' '

The excited crowd about the door suddenly parted,
and Don Diego Vega hurried into the tavern.

* * What is this I hear ? " he asked. * ' They are say-
ing that Senor Zorro has paid a visit here."

'* 'Tis a true word, cahallero!'' Gonzales an-
swered. *^And we were speaking of the cutthroat
here this evening. Had you remained instead of go-
ing home to work with your secretary, you should
have seen the entire affair."

**Were you not here? Can you not tell me?"
Don Diego asked. *^But I pray you make not the
tale too bloody. I cannot see why men must be vio-
lent. AYhere is the highwayman's dead body?"

Gonzales choked; the fat landlord turned away
to hide his smile; the corporal and soldiers began

28 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

picking up vdne mugs to keep busy at this dangerous
moment.

^'He — that is, there is no body,'^ Gonzales man-
aged to say.

^^Have done with your modesty, sergeant!'* Don
Diego cried. *^Am I not your friend? Did you not
promise to tell me the story if you met this cut-
throat f I know you would spare my feelings, know-
ing that I do not love violence, yet I am eager for
the facts because you, my friend, have been engaged
with this fellow. How much was the reward f

**By the saints!" Gonzales swore.

*^Come, sergeant! Out with the tale! Landlord,
give all of us wine, that we may celebrate this atf air !
Your tale, sergeant ! Shall you leave the army, now
that you have earned the reward, and purchase a
hacienda and take a wife?"

Sergeant Gonzales choked again, and reached
gropingly for a wine mug.

*'You promised me," Don Diego continued, ^*that
you would tell me the whole thing, word by word.
Did he not say as much, landlord? You declared
that you would relate how you played with him;
how you laughed at him while you fought ; how you
pressed him back after a time and then ran him
through — "

*^By the saints!" Sergeant Gonzales roared, the
words coming from between his lips like peals of
thunder. ^ ^ It is beyond the endurance of any man !
You — Don Diego — my friend — "

**Your modesty ill becomes you at such a time,"

SWORDS CLASH 29

Don Diego said. ^^Yon promised the tale, and I
would have it. What does this Senor Zorro look
like? Have you peered at the dead face beneath the
mask? It is, perhaps, some man that we all know!
Cannot some one of you tell me the facts? You
stand here like so many speechless images of
men — "

*^Wine — or I choke!" G-onzales howled. ^*Don
Diego, you are my good friend, and I will cross
swords with any man who belittles you ! But do not
try me too far this night — "

^^I fail to understand," Don Diego said. *'I have
but asked you to tell me the story of the fight —
how you mocked him as you battled ; how you pressed
him back at will, and presently ended it by running
him through — "

* ^ Enough ! Am I to be taunted ? ' ' the big sergeant
cried. He gulped down the wine and hurled the
mug far from him.

*'Is it possible that you did not win the battle?"
Don Diego asked. *'But surely this pretty highway-
man could not stand up before you, my sergeant.
How was the outcome?"

^'He had a pistol — "

^^Why did you not take it away from him, then,
and crowd it down his throat? But perhaps that is
what you did. Here is more wine, my sergeant.
Dnnk!"

But Sergeant Gonzales was thrusting his way
through the throng at the door.

**I must not forget my duty!" he said. ^^I must

30 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

hurry to the presidio and report this occurrence
to the comayidanteF^

**But, sergeant — "

**And, as to this Senor Zorro, he will be meat
for my blade before I am done!'' Gonzales prom,
ised.

And then, cursing horribly, he rushed away
through the rain, the first time in his life he ever
had allowed duty to interfere with his pleasure and
had run from good wine.

Don Diego Vega smiled as he turned toward the
fireplace.

CHAPTER V

A EIDE IN THE MORNING

The following morning found the storm at an
end, and there was not a single cloud to mar the
perfect blue of the sky, and the sun was bright,
and palm fronds glistened in it, and the air was
bracing as it blew down the valleys from the sea.

At midmorning, Don Diego Vega came from his
house in the pueblo, drawing on his sheepskin riding-
mittens, and stood for a moment before it, glanc-
ing across the plaza at the little tavern. From the
rear of the house an Indian servant led a horse.

Though Don Diego did not go galloping across
the hills and up and down El Camino Real like an
idiot, yet he owned a fairish bit of horseflesh. The
animal had spirit and speed and endurance, and
many a young blood would have purchased him,
except that Don Diego had no use for more money
and wanted to retain the beast.

The saddle was heavy, and showed more silver
than leather on its surface. The bridle was heavily
chased with silver, too, and from its sides dangled
leather globes studded with semiprecious stones,
that now glittered in the bright sunshine as if to
advertise Don Diego's wealth and prestige to all
the world.

Don Diego mounted, while half a score of men

32 THE MARK OF ZORRO

loitering around the plaza watched and made efforts
to hide their grins. It was quite the thing in those
days for a youngster to spring from the ground into
his saddle, gather up the reins, rake the beast's
flanks with his great spurs, and disappear in a
cloud of dust all in one motion.

But Don Diego mounted a horse as he did every-
thing else — without haste or spirit. The native held
a stirrup, and Don Diego inserted the toe of his
boot. Then he gathered the reins in one hand, and
pulled himself into the saddle as if it had been quite
a task.

Having done that much, the native held the other
stirrup and guided Don Diego's other boot into it,
and then he backed away, and Don Diego clucked
to the magnificent beast and started it, at a walk,
along the edge of the plaza toward the trail that
ran to the north.

Having reached the trail, Don Diego allowed the
animal to trot, and after having covered a mile
in this fashion, he urged the beast into a slow gal-
lop, and so rode along the highway.

Men were busy in the fields and orchards, and
natives were tending the herds. Now and then Don
Diego passed a lumbering carreta, and saluted who-
ever happened to be in it. Once a young man he
knew passed him at a gallop, going toward the
pueblo, and Don Diego stopped his own horse to
brush the dust from his garments after the man had
gone his way.

Those same garments were more gorgeous than

A EIDE IN THE MORNING 33

usual this bright morning. A glance at them was
enough to establish the wealth and position of the
wearer. Don Diego had dressed with much care,
admonishing his servants because his newest serape
was not pressed properly, and spending a great deal
of time over the polishing of his boots.

He traveled for a distance of four miles, and then
turned from the highroad and started up a narrow,
dusty trail that led to a group of buildings against
the side of a hill in the distance. Don Diego Vega
was about to pay a visit to the hacienda of Don
Carlos Pulido.

This same Don Carlos had experienced numerous
vicissitudes during the last few years. Once he
had been second to none except Don Diego's father
in position, wealth, and breeding. But he had made
the mistake of getting on the wrong side of the
fence politically, and he found himself stripped of
a part of his broad acres, and tax-gatherers bother-
ing him in the name of the governor, until there
remained but a remnant of his former fortune, but
all his inherited dignity of birth.

On this morning Don Carlos was sitting on the
veranda of the Jiacienda meditating on the times,
which were not at all to his liking. His wife. Dona
Catalina, the sweetheart of his youth and age, was
inside directing her servants. His only child, the
• Senorita Lolita, likewise was inside, plucking at
the strings of a guitar and dreaming as a girl of
eighteen dreams.

Don Carlos raised his silvered head and peered

34 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

down the long, twisting trail, and saw in the dis-
tance a small cloud of dust. The dust-cloud told
him that a single horseman was approaching, and
Don Carlos feared another gatherer of taxes.

He shaded his eyes with a hand and watched the
approaching horseman carefully. He noted the
leisurely manner in which he rode his mount, and
suddenly hope sang in his breast, for he saw the
sun flashing from the silver on saddle and bridle,
and he knew that men of the army did not have such
lich harness to use while on duty.

The rider had made the last turning now, and
was in plain sight from the veranda of the house,
and Don Carlos rubbed his eyes and looked again
to verify the suspicion he had. Even at that dis-
tance the aged don could establish the identity of
the horseman.

'* 'Tis Don Diego Yega,'' he breathed. ''May
the saints grant that here is a turn in my fortunes
for the better at last."

Don Diego, he knew, might only be stopping to
pay a friendly visit, and yet that would be some-
thing, for when it was known abroad that the Vega
family was on excellent terms with the Pulido es-
tablishment, even the politicians would stop to think
t^vice before harassing Don Carlos further, for the
Vegas were a power in the land.

So Don Carlos slapped his hands together, and
a native hurried out from the house, and Don Carlos
bade him draw the shades so that the sun would
be kept from a corner of the veranda, and place a

A EIDE IN THE MORNING 35

table and some chairs, and hurry with small cakes
and mne.

He sent word into the house to the women, too,
that Don Diego Vega was approaching. Doiia Cata-
lina felt her heart beginning to sing, and she her-
self began to hum a little song, and Seiiorita Lolita
ran to a window to look out at the trail.

When Don Diego stopped before the steps that
led to the veranda, there was a native waiting to
care for his horse, and Don Carlos himself walked
halfway down the steps and stood waiting, his hand
held out in welcome.

**I am glad to see you a visitor at my poor
hacienda, Don Diego," he said, as the young man
approached, drawing off his mittens.

*^It is a long and dusty road,'^ Don Diego said.
**It wearies me, too, to ride a horse the distance."

Don Carlos almost forgot himself and smiled at
that, for surely riding a horse a distance of four
miles was not enough to tire a young man of blood.
But he remembered Don Diego's iifelessness, and
did not smile, lest the smile cause anger.

He led the way to the shady nook on the veranda,
and offered Don Diego wine and cakes, and waited
for his guest to speak. As became the times, the
women remained inside the house, not ready to show
themselves unless the visitor asked for them, or
their lord and master called.

^*How ar^ things in the pueblo of Reina de Los
Angeles?" Don Carlos asked. **It has been a space
of several score days since I visited there.''

36 THE MARK OF ZORRO

** Everything is the same," said Don Diego, *' ex-
cept that this Seiior Zorro invaded the tavern last
evening and had a duel with the big Sergeant Gon-
zales."

**Ha! Senor Zorro, ehf And what was the out-
come of the fighting?"

^^ Though the sergeant has a crooked tongue while
speaking of it," said Don Diego, ^4t has come to
me through a corporal who was present that this
Seiior Zorro played with the sergeant, and finally
disarmed him and sprang through a window to
make his escape in the rain. They could not find
his tracks."

**A clever rogue!" Don Carlos said. '*At least,
I have nothing to fear from him. It is generally
kno\vn up and down El Camino Real, I suppose, that
I have been stripped of almost everything the gov-
ernor's men could carry away. I look for them to
take the hacienda next."

^*Um! Such a thing should be stopped!" Don
Diego said, with more than his usual amount of
spirit.

The eyes of Don Carlos brightened. If Don Diego
Vega could be made to feel some sympathy, if one
of the illustrious Vega family would but whisper a
word in the governor's ear, the persecution would
cease instantly, for the commands of a Vega were
made to be obeyed by all men of whatever rank.

CHAPTER VI

DIEGO SEEKS A BEIDE

Don Diego sipped his wine slowly and looked out
across the mesa, and Don Carlos looked at him in
puzzled fashion, realizing that something was com-
ing, and scarcely knowing what to expect.

**I did not ride through the damnable sun and
dust to talk with you concerning this Senor Zorro,
or any other bandit,'' Don Diego explained, after
a time.

** Whatever your errand, I am glad to welcome
one of your family, cahallero/^ Don Carlos said.

**I had a long talk with my father yesterday
morning," Don Diego went on. **He informed me
that I am approaching the age of twenty-five, and
he is of a mind that I am not accepting my duties
and responsibilities in the proper fashion."

*^But surely — "

*^0h, doubtless he knows! My father is a wise
man."

**And no man can dispute that, Don Diego!"

^^He urged upon me that I awaken and do as I
should. I have been dreaming, it appears. A man
of my wealth and station — you will pardon me if I
speak of it — ^must do certain things."

^*It is the curse of position, senor/'

**When my father dies I come into his fortune,

38 THE MAEK OF ZOERO

naturally, being the only child. That part of it is
all right. But what will happen when I die I That
is what my father asks/'

*^I understand."

*^A young man of my age, he told me, should have
a wife, a mistress of his household, and should —
er — have offspring to inherit and preserve an illus-
trious name.''

'^Nothing could be truer than that," said Don
Carlos.

^^So I have decided to get me a wife."

^^Ha! It is something every man should do, Don
Diego. "Well do I remember when I courted Dona
Catalina. We were mad to get into each other's
arms, but her father kept her from me for a time.
I was only seventeen, though, so perhaps he did
right. But you are nearly twenty-five. Get you a
bride, by all means."

'*And so I have come to see you about it," Don
Diego said.

^'To see me about itT' gasped Don Carlos, with
something of fear and a great deal of hope in his
breast.

^ 'It will be rather a bore, I expect. Love and mar-
riage, and all that sort of thing, is rather a neces-
sary nuisance in its way. The idea of a man of
sense running about a woman, playing a guitar for
her, making up to her like a loon when every one
knows his intention !

**And then the ceremony! Being a man of wealth
and station, I suppose the wedding must be an elab-

DIEOO SEEKS A BEIDE 39

orate one, and the natives will have to be feasted,
and all that, simply because a man is taking a bride
to be mistress of his household. ''

*^Most young men,^' Don Carlos observed, 'Me-
light to win a woman, and are proud if they have a
great and fashionable wedding."

**No doubt. But it is an awful nuisance. How-
ever, I will go through with it, senor. It is my
father's wish, you see. You — if you will pardon
me again — ^have fallen upon evil days. That is the
result of politics, of course. But you are of excel-
lent blood, senor, of the best blood in the land."

' ' I thank you for remembering that truth ! ' ' said
Don Carlos, rising long enough to put one hand
over his heart and bow.

*' Everybody knows it, senor. And a Vega, nat-
urally, when he takes a mate, must seek out a woman
of excellent blood."

**To be sure!" Don Carlos exclaimed.

**You have an only daughter, the Senorita Lo-
Hta."

**Ah! Yes, indeed, senor, Lolita is eighteen
now, and a beautiful and accomplished girl, if her
father is the man to say it."

**I have observed her at the mission and at the
puehlo/' Don Diego said. '^She is, indeed, beauti-
ful, and I have heard that she is accomplished. Of
her birth and breeding there can be no doubt. I
think she would be a fit woman to preside over my
household. ' '

''Senor?''

40 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

**That is the object of my visit to-day, senor,"

^^You — you are asking my permission to pay ad-
dresses to my fair daughter T'

'*I am, senor/'

Don Carlos 's face beamed, and again he sprang
from his chair, this time to bend forward and grasp
Don Diego by the hand.

^^She is a fair flower, '^ the father said. *^I would
see her wed, and I have been to some anxiety about
it, for I did not wish her to marry into a family
that did not rank with mine. But there can be no
question where a Vega is concerned. You have my
permission, senor/'

Don Carlos was delighted. An alliance between,
his daughter and Don Diego Vega! His fortunes
were retrieved the moment that was consummated.
He would be important and powerful again !

He called a native and sent for his wife, and
within a few minutes the Dona Catalina appeared
on the veranda to greet the visitor, her face beam-
ing, for she had been listening.

^'Don Diego has done us the honor to request per-
mission to pay his respects to our daughter," Don
Carlos explained.

*^You have given consent?'' Dona Catalina asked;
for it would not do, of course, to jump for the
man.

**I have given my consent," Don Carlos replied.

Dona Catalina held out her hand, and Don Diego
gave it a languid grasp and then released it.

**Such an alliance would be a proud one," Dona

DIEGO SEEKS A BRIDE 41

Catalina said. *'I hope that yon may win her heart,
senor,'^

**As to that," said Don Diego, **I trust there will
be no undue nonsense. Either the lady wants me
and wiU have me, or she will not. Will I change
her mind if I play a guitar beneath her window, or
hold her hand when I may, or put my hand over
my heart and sigh I I want her for wife, else I
would not have ridden here to ask her father for
her."

^*I — I — of course!" said Don Carlos.

^^Ah, senor, but a maid delights to be won," said
the Dona Catalina. ^^It is her privilege, senor.
The hours of courtship are held in memory during
her lifetime. She remembers the pretty things her
lover said, and the first kiss, when they stood beside
the stream and looked into each other's eyes, and
when he showed sudden fear for her while they
were riding and her horse bolted — those things,
senor,

^'li is like a little game, and it has been played
since the beginning of time. Foolish, senor? Per-
haps when a person looks at it with cold reason.
But delightful, nevertheless."

^'I don't know anything about it," Don Diego
protested. ^*I never ran around making love to
women."

^*The woman you marry wiU not be sorry because
of that, senor. ^^

^*You think it is necessary for me to do these
things?"

42 THE MAEK OF ZORRO

**01i,'' said Don Carlos, afraid of losing an in-
fluential son-in-law, *^a little bit would not hurt.
A maid likes to be wooed, of course, even though
she has made up her mind.*'

"I have a servant who is a wonder at the guitar,"
Don Diego said. ** To-night I shall order him to
come out and play beneath the senorUa^s window."

'^And not come yourself?" Doiia Catalina gasped.

**Ride out here again to-night, when the chill wind
blows in from the seal" gasped Don Diego. ^'It
would kill me. And the native plays the guitar
better than L"

**I never heard of such a thing!" Dona Catalina
gasped, her sense of the fitness of things outraged.

^*Let Don Diego do as he wills," Don Carlos
urged.

'^I had thought," said Don Diego, **that you
would arrange everything and then let me know.
I would have my house put in order, of course, and
get me more servants. Perhaps I should purchase
a coach and drive with my bride as far as Santa
Barbara and visit a friend there. Is it not possible
for you to attend to everything else? Just merely
send me word when the wedding is to be."

Don Carlos Pulido was nettled a little himself
now.

'^Cahallero/' he said, **when I courted Dona
Catalina she kept me on needles and pins. One day
she would frown, and the next day smile. It added
a spice to the affair. I would not have had it dif-
ferent. You will regret it, senor, if you do not do

DIEGO SEEKS A BRIDE 43

your own courting. Would you like to see the
sefiorita now?'^

**I suppose I must," Don Diego said.

Dona Catalina threw up her head and went into
the house to fetch the girl; and soon she came, a
dainty little thing with black eyes that snapped,
and black hair that was wound around her head
in a great coil, and dainty little feet that peeped
from beneath skirts of bright hue.

^*I am happy to see you again, Don Diego," she
said.

He bowed over her hand and assisted her to one
of the chairs.

*^You are as beautiful as you were when I saw
you last," he said.

** Always tell a senorita that she is more beautiful
than when you saw her last," groaned Don Carlos.
^^Ah, that I were young again and could make love
anew ! ' '

He excused himself and entered the house, and
Dona Catalina moved to the other end of the veranda,
so that the pair could talk without letting her hear
the words, but from where she could watch, as a
good duena always must.

^^ Senorita/' Don Diego said, "I have asked your
father this morning for permission to seek you in
marriage."

*'0h, senor!'' the girl gasped.

^*Do you think I would make a proper husband f"

^'Why, I— that is—"

** Just say the word, senorita, and I shall tell my

44 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

father, and your family will vaake arrangements for
the ceremony. They can send word in to me by
some native. It fatignes me to ride abroad when
it is not at all necessary.''

Now the pretty eyes of the Senorita Lolita began
flashing warning signals, but Don Diego, it was evi-
dent, did not see them, and so he rushed forward
to his destruction.

''Shall you agree to becoming my wife, senorita f
he asked, bending slightly toward her.

Senorita Lolita 's face burned red, and she sprang
from her chair, her tiny fists clenched at her side.

"Don Diego Vega," she replied, ''you are of a
noble family, and have much wealth, and will inherit
more. But you are lifeless, senor! Is this your
idea of courtship and romance! Can you not take
ihe trouble to ride four miles on a smooth road to
see the maid you would wed! What sort of blood
is in your veins, senorf"

Dona Catalina heard that, and now she rushed
across the veranda toward them, making signals
to her daughter, which Senorita Lolita refused to
see.

"The man who weds me must woo me and win
my love," the girl went on. "He must touch my
heart. Think you that I am some bronze native
wench to give myself to the first man who asks?
The man who becomes my husband must be a man
with life enough in him to want me. Send your
servant to play a guitar beneath my window? Oh,
1 heard, senor! Send him, senor, and I'U throw

DIEGO SEEKS A BEIDE 45

boiling water upon him, and bleach bis red skin!
Buenas dias, senorl^'

She threw up her head proudly, lifted her silken
skirts aside, and so passed him to enter the* house,
disregarding her mother also. Doiia Catalina
moaned once for her lost hopes. Don Diego Yega
looked after the disappearing senorita, and scratched
at his head thoughtfully, and glanced toward his
horse.

^^I — I believe she is displeased with me,'' he said,
in his timid voice.

CHAPTER Vn

A DIFFERENT SORT OF J^IAN

Don Carlos lost no time in hurrying out to the
veranda again — since he had been listening and so
knew what had happened — and endeavoring to pla-
cate the embarrassed Don Diego Vega. Though
there was consternation in his heart, he contrived
to chuckle and make light of the occurrence.

*' Women are fitful and filled with fancies, senor/'
he said. ^*At times they will rail at those whom
they in reality adore. There is no telling the work-
ings of a woman's mind — she cannot explain it with
satisfaction herseK.''

^^But I — I scarcely understand,'' Don Diego
gasped. **I used my words with care. Surely I
said nothing to insult or anger the senorital^'

^^She would be wooed, I take it, in the regular
fashion. Do not despair, senor. Both her mother
and myself have agreed that you are a proper man
for her husband. It is customary that a maid fight
off a man to a certain extent, and then surrender.
It appears to make the surrender the sweeter. Per-
haps the next time you visit us she will be more
agreeable. I feel quite sure of it!"

So Don Diego shook hands with Don Carlos
Pulido and mounted his horse and rode slowly down
the trail ; and Don Carlos turned about and entered

A DIFFERENT SORT OF MAN 47

his house again and faced his wife and daughter,
standing before the latter ^ith his hands on his hips
and regarding her with something akin to sorrow.

"He is the greatest catch in all the country!"
Doiia Catalina was wailing; and she dabbed at her
eyes with a delicate square of filmy lace.

*'He has wealth and position and could mend my
broken fortunes if he were but my son-in-law," Don
Carlos declared, not taking his eyes from his daugh-
ter's face.

^^He has a magnificent house, and a hacienda be-
sides, and the best horses near Reina de Los An-
geles, and he is sole heir to his wealthy father,"
Dona Catalina said.

"One whisper from his lips into the ear of his
excellency, the governor, and a man is made — or un-
made," added Don Carlos.

"He is handsome — "

**I grant you that!" exclaimed the Seiiorita Lo-
lita, lifting her pretty head and glaring at them
bravely. ^ ' That is what angers me ! What a lover
the man could be, if he would! Is it anything to
make a girl proud to have it said that the man she
married never looked at another woman, and so
did not select her after dancing and talking and
playing at love with others?"

"He preferred you to all others, else he would
not have ridden out to-day," Don Carlos said.

"Certainly it must have fatigued him!" the girl
said. "Why does he let himself be made the laugh-
ing-stock of the country? He is handsome and rich

48 THE MAJBK OF ZORRO

and talented. He has health, and could lead all the
other young men. Yet he has scarcely enough en-
ergy to dress himself, I doubt not.''

^^This is all beyond me!'' the Dona Catalina
Trailed. **When I was a girl, there was nothing like
this! An honorable man comes seeking you as
wife — "

^^Were he less honorable and more of a man, I
might look at him a second time," said the seno-
rita.

**You must look at him more than a second time,"
put in Don Carlos, with some authority in his man-
ner. ^'You cannot throw away such a fine chance.
Think on it, my daughter! Be in a more amiable
mood when Don Diego calls again."

Then he hurried to the patio on pretense that he
wished to speak -to a servant, but in reality to get
away from the scene. Don Carlos had proved him-
self to be a courageous man in his youth, and now
he was a wise man also, and hence he knew better
than to participate in an argument between women.

Soon the siesta hour was at hand, and the Senorita
Lolita went into the patio and settled herself on a
little bench near the fountain. Her father was doz-
ing on the veranda, and her mother in her room,
and the servants were scattered over the place,
sleeping also. But Senorita Lolita could not sleep,
for her mind was busy.

She knew her father's circumstances, of course,
for it had been some time since he could hide them,
and she wanted, naturally, to see him in excellent

A DIFFERENT SORT OF MAN 49

fortune again. She knew, too, that did she wed with
Don Diego Vega, her father was made whole. For
a Vega would not let the relatives of his wife be
in any but the best of circumstances.

She called up before her a vision of Don Diego's
handsome face, and wondered what it would be like
if lighted with love and passion. 'Twere a pity the
man was so lifeless, she told herself. But to wed a
man who suggested sending a native servant to
serenade her in his own place!

The splashing of the water in the fountain lulled
her to sleep, and she curled up in one end of the
bench, her cheek pillowed on one tiny hand, her
black hair cascading to the ground.

And suddenly she was awakened by a touch on
her arm, and sat up quickly, and then would have
screamed except that a hand was crushed against
her lips to prevent her.

Before her stood a man whose body was enveloped
in a long cloak, and whose face was covered with
a black mask so that she could see nothing of his
features except his glittering eyes. She had heard
Senor Zorro, the highwayman, described, and she
guessedthat this was he, and her heart almost ceased
to beat, she was so afraid.

'* Silence, and no harm comes to you, senorita,"
the man whispered hoarsely.

**You — you are — '' she questioned on her breath.

He stepped back, removed his sombrero, and
bowed low before her.

**You have guessed it, my charming senor it a/ ^ he

50 THE MAEK OF ZORRO

said. **I am known as Seiior Zorro, the Curse of
Capistrano."

*^And — yon are here — ''

*'I mean you no harm, no harm to any of this
hacienda, senorita. I x)umsh those who are unjust,
and your father is not that. I admire him greatly.
Rather would I punish those who do him evil than
to touch him."

**I — I thank you, seiior.''

**I am weary, and the hacienda is an excellent
place to rest,'' he said. ^*I knew it to be the siesta
hour, also, and thought every one would be asleep.
It were a shame to awaken you, senorita, but I felt
that I must speak. Your beauty would hinge a
man's tongue in its middle so that both ends might
be free to sing your praises."

Senorita Lolita had the grace to blush.

^'I would that my beauty affected other men so,"
she said.

*^And does it not? Is it that the Senorita Lolita
lacks suitors? But that cannot be possible!"

^^It is, nevertheless, senor. There are few bold
enough to seek to ally themselves with the family
of Pulido, since it is out of favor with the powers.
There is one — suitor," she went on. '^But he does
not seem to put much life into his wooing."

'^Ha! A laggard at love — and in your presence?
'What ails the man? Is he ill?"

*^He is so wealthy that I suppose he thinks he
has but to request it and a maiden will agree to
wed him."

A DIFFEEENT SORT OF MAN 51

'^Wliat an imbecile! 'Tis the wooing gives the
spice to romance!"

**But you, senor! Somebody may come and see
you here ! You may be captured ! ' '

'^And do you not wish to see a highwayman cap-
tured! Perhaps it would mend your father's
fortune were he to capture me. The governor is
much vexed, I understand, concerning my opera-
tions.''

^*You — you had best go," she said.

^* There speaks mercy in your heart. You know
that capture would mean my death. Yet must I risk
it, and tarry a while."

He seated himself upon the bench, and Senorita
Lolita moved away as far as she could, and then
started to rise.

But Senor Zorro had been anticipating that. He
grasped one of her hands, and before she guessed
his intention had bent forward, raised the bottom
of his mask, and pressed his Hps to its pink, moist
palm.

^^ Senor!'' she cried, and jerked her hand away.

**It were bold, yet a man must express his feel-
ings," he said. *^I have not offended beyond for-
giveness, I hope."

*^Go, senor J else I make an outcry!"

'*And get me executed!"

**You are but a thief of the highroad!"

**Yet I love life as any other man."

**I shall call out, senor! There is a reward offered
for your capture."

52 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

'^Sucli pretty hands would not handle blood
money. ' '

*^Go!"

**Ah, senorita, yon are cruel! A sight of you
sends the blood pounding through a man's veins. A
man would fight a horde at the bidding of your
sweet lips."

''Senorr' (

* * A man would die in your defense, senorita. Such
grace, such fresh beauty ! ' '

**For the last time, senor! I shall make an outcry
• — and your fate be on your own head ! ' '

**Your hand again — and I go!''

**It may not be!"

**Then here I sit until they come and take me. No
doubt I shall not have to wait long. That big Ser-
geant Gonzales is on the trail, I understand, and
may have discovered track of me. He will have sol-
diers with him — "

'* Senor, for the love of the saints — "

''Your hand!"

She turned her back and gave it, and once more
he pressed his lips to the pahn. And then she felt
herself being turned slowly, and her eyes looked
deep into his. A thrill seemed to run through her.
She realized that he retained her hand, and she
pulled it away. And then she turned and ran
quickly across the patio and into the house.

With her heart pounding at her ribs, she stood be-
hind the curtains at a window and watched. Senor
Zorro walked slowly to the fountain, and stooped to

A DIFFERENT SORT OF MAN 53

drink. Then he put his sombrero on, looked once at
the honse, and stalked away. She heard the gallop-
ing hoofs of a horse die in the distance.

^^A thief — yet a man!^' she breathed. *^If Don
Diego had only half as much dash and courage !*'

CHAPTER Vm

DON CAELOS PLAYS A GAME

She turned away from the window, thankful that
none of the household had seen Senor Zorro or
knew of his visit. The remainder of the day she
spent on the veranda, half the time working on
some lace she was making, and the other half gazing
down the dusty trail that ran toward the highway.

And then came evening, and down by the natives'
adobe huts big fires were lighted, and the natives
gathered around them to cook and eat and speak
of the events of the day. Inside the house the eve-
ning meal had been prepared, and the family was
about to sit at table when some one knocked upon the
door.

An Indian ran to open it, and Senor Zorro strode
into the room. His sombrero came off, he bowed,
and then he raised his head and looked at the speech-
less Dona Catalina and the haK-terrified Don Car-
los.

**I trust you will pardon this intrusion," he said.
**I am the man known as Senor Zorro. But do not
be frightened, for I have not come to rob.''

Don Carlos got slowly upon his feet, while Seno-
rita Lolita gasped at this display of the man's cour-
age, and feared he would mention the visit of the

DON CAELOS PLAYS A GAME 55

afternoon, of wMcli slie had refrained from telling
her mother.

** Scoundrel!" Don Carlos roared. **You dare
to enter an honest house I"

**I am no enemy of yours, Don Carlos!" Senor
Zorro replied. *'In fact, I have done some things
that should appeal to a man who has been per-
secuted."

That was true, Don Carlos knew, but he was too
wise to admit it and so speak treason. Heaven
knew he was enough in the bad graces of the gover-
nor now without offending him more by treating
with courtesy this man for whose carcass the gover-
nor had offered a reward.

^* What do you wish here?" he asked.

**I crave your hospitality, senor. In other words,
I would eat and drink. I am a cahallero, hence
make my claim in justice."

** Whatever good blood once flowed in your veins
has been fouled by your actions!" Don Carlos said.
** A thief and highwayman has no claim upon the hos-
pitality of this hacienda/'

'*I take it that you fear to feed me, since the gov-
ernor may hear of it," Senor Zorro answered.
*^You may say that you were forced to do it. And
that wiUbe the truth!"

Now one hand came from beneath the cloak, and
it held a pistol. Dona Catalina shrieked and
fainted, and Senorita Lolita cowered in her chair.

^^ Doubly a scoundrel, since you frighten women!"
Don Carlos exclaimed angrily. ^* Since it is death

56 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

to refuse, you may have meat and drink. But I ask
you to be caballero enough to allow me to remove my
wife to another room and call a native woman to
care for her."

^*By all means," Senor Zorro said. **But the
senorita remains here as hostage for your good con-
duct and return."

Don Carlos glanced at the man, and then at the
girl, and saw that the latter was not afraid. He
picked his wife up in his arms, and bore her through
the doorway, roaring for servants to come.

Senor Zorro walked around the end of the table,
bowed to Lolita again, and sat down in a chair beside
her.

*^This is foolhardiness, no doubt, but I had to
see your beaming face again," he said.

''Senorr'

**The sight of you this afternoon started a con-
flagration in my heart, senorita. The touch of your
hand was new life to me!"

Lolita turned away, her face flaming, and Senor
Zorro moved his chair nearer and reached for her
hand, but she eluded him.

^^The longing to hear the music of your voice,
senorita, may lure me here often," he said.

^^ Senor! You must never come again! I was
lenient with you this afternoon, but I can not be
again. The next time I shall shriek, and you will
be taken."

*'You could not be so cruel," he said.

^* Your fate would be upon your own head, senor/*

DON CAELOS PLAYS A GAME 57

Then Don Carlos came back into the room, and
Senor Zorro arose and bowed once more.

*^I trnst your wife has recovered from her
swoon,'' he said. *'I regret that the sight of my
poor pistol frightened her."

^^She has recovered," Don Carlos said. '^I be-
lieve you said that you wished meat and drink?
Now that I come to think of it, senor, you have in-
deed done some things that I have admired, and I
am happy to grant you hospitality for a time. A
servant shall furnish you food immediately."

Don Carlos walked to the door, called a native,
and gave his orders. Don Carlos was well pleased
with himself. Carrying his wife into the next room
had given him his chance. For servants had an-
swered his call, and among them had been one he
trusted. And he had ordered the man to take the
swiftest horse and ride like the wind the four miles
to the puehlOj and there to spread the alarm that
Senor Zorro was at the Pulido hacienda.

His object now was to delay this Senor Zorro as
much as possible. For he knew the soldiers would
come, and the highwayman be killed or captured,
and surely the governor would admit that Don Car-
los was entitled to some consideration for what he
had done.

*^You must have had some stirring adventures,
senor/' Don Carlos said, as he returned to the table.

**A few," the highwayman admitted.

^^ There was that affair at Santa Barbara, for in-
stance. I never did hear the straight of that."

58 THE MAEK OF ZOERO

**I dislike to speak of my own work, senorj'

'*Please,'' the Senorita Lolita begged; and so
Senor Zorro overcame bis scruples for the time
being.

**It really was nothing," he said. **I arrived in
the vicinity of Santa Barbara at sunset. There is a
fellow there who runs a store, and he had been beat-
ing natives and stealing from the frailes. He would
demand that the frailes sell him goods from the
mission, and then complain ,that the weight was
short, and the governor's men would make the
frailes deliver more. So I resolved to punish the
man. ' '

^*Pray continue, senor,'' said Don Carlos, bend-
ing forward as if deeply interested.

^^I dismounted at the door of his building and
walked inside. He had candles burning, and there
were half a dozen fellows trading with him. I cov-
ered them with my pistol and drove them into a
corner, and ordered this storekeeper before me. I
frightened him thoroughly, and forced him to dis-
gorge the money he had in a secret hiding place.
And then I lashed him with a whip taken from his
own wall, and told him why I had done it.''

**Excellent !" Don Carlos cried.

**Then I sprang on my horse and dashed away.
At a native's hut I made a placard, saying that I
was a friend of the oppressed. Feeling particularly
"bold that evening, I galloped up to the door of the
presidio, brushed aside the sentry — who took me for
a courier — and pinned the placard to the door of

DON CAELOS PLAYS A GAME 59

the presidio with my knife. Just then the soldiers
came rushing out. I fired over their heads, and
while they were bewildered I rode away toward the
hills.''

**And escaped!" Don Carlos exclaimed.

*^I am here — that is your answer."

*'And why is the governor so particularly bitter
against you, senorf Don Carlos asked. '^ There
are other highwaymen to whom he gives not a
thought. ' '

^*Ha! I had a personal clash with his excellency.
He was driving from San Francisco de Asis to
Santa Barbara on official business, with an escort of
soldiers about him. They stopped at a brook to
refresh themselves, and the soldiers scattered while
the governor spoke with his friends. I was hiding
in the forest, and suddenly dashed out and at them.

*^ Instantly I was at the open door of the coach.
I presented my pistol at his head and ordered him
to hand over his fat purse — which he did. Then I
spurred through his soldiers, upsetting several as
I did so—"

^^And escaped!" Don Carlos cried.

**I am here !" assented Senor Zorro.

The servant brought a tray of food and placed it
before the highwayman, retreating as soon as pos-
sible, his eyes big with fear and his hands trembling,
for many weird tales had been told of this same
Senor Zorro and his brutality, none of which was
true.

^'I am sure that you will pardon me," Senor

60 THE MAEK OF ZORRO

Zorro said, ^^when I ask you to sit at the far end
of the room. As I take each bite, I must raise the
bottom of my mask, for I have no wish to become
known. I put the pistol before me on the table, so,
to discourage treachery. And now, Don Carlos
Pulido, I shall do justice to the meal you have fur-
nished.*'

Don Carlos and his daughter sat where they had
been directed, and the bandit ate with evident relish.
Now and then he stopped to talk to them, and once
he had Don Carlos send out for more wine, declar-
ing it to be the best he had tasted for a year.

Don Carlos was only too glad to oblige him. He
was playing to gain time. He knew the horse the
native rode, and judged that he had reached the
presidio at Reina de Los Angeles before this, and
that the soldiers were on their way. If he could
hold this Seiior Zorro until they arrived!

*'I am having some food prepared for you to
carry with you, senor/' he said. ^'You will par-
don me while I get it? My daughter will entertain
you. ' '

Senor Zorro bowed, and Don Carlos hurried from
the room. But Don Carlos had made a mistake in
his eagerness. It was an unusual thing for a girl
to be left alone in the company of a man in such
fashion, especially with a man known to be an out-
law. Senor Zorro guessed at once that he was be-
ing delayed purposely. For, again, it was an
unusual thing for a man like Don Carlos to go for
the package of food himself when there were ser-

DON CAELOS PLAYS A GAIME 61

vants that could be called by a mere clapping of the
hands. Don Carlos, in fact, had gone into the other
room to listen at a window for sounds of galloping
horses.

'' Senor!'^ Lolita whispered across the room.

^*What is it, serioritaf

**You must go — at once. I am afraid that my
father has sent for the soldiers. '^

'^And you are kind enough to warn me!"

*^Do I wish to see you taken here? Do I wish to
see fighting and bloodshed?'' she asked.

**That is the only reason, senorita?^'

''Will you not go, senorf

''I am loath to rush away from such a charming
presence, senorita. May I come again at the next
siesta hour!"

''By the saints — no! This must end, Seiior
Zorro ! Go your way — and take care ! You have
done some things that I admire, hence I would not
see you captured. Go north, as far as San Fran-
cisco de Asis, and turn honest, senor. It is the bet-
ter way.''

"Little priest!" he said.

"Shall you go, senor f

"But your father has gone to fetch food for me.
And could I depart without thanking him for this
meal?"

Don Carlos came back into the room then, and
Senor Zorro knew by the expression on his face
that the soldiers were coming up the trail. The don
put a package on the table.

62 THE MAEK OF ZORRO

**Some food to carry witli you, senor/' he said.
**Aiid we would relish more of your reminiscences
before you start on your perilous journey.'^

**I have spoken too much of myself already, senor,
and it ill becomes a caballero to do that. It were
better that I thank you and leave you now."

**At least, senor, drink another mug of wine."

**I fear," said Seiior Zorro, '^that the soldiers
are much too close, Don Carlos."

The face of the don went white at that, for the
highwayman was picking up his pistol, and Don
Carlos feared he was about to pay the price for
Ms freacherous hospitality. But Senor Zorro made
no move to fire.

^^I forgive you this breach of hospitality, Don
Carlos, because I am an outlaw and there has been
a price put upon my head," he said. ''And, also,
I hold you no ill will because of it. Buenas noches,
senorita! Senor, a Dios!^'

Then a terrified servant who knew little concern-
ing the events of the evening rushed in at the door.

''Master! The soldiers are here!" he cried.
''They are surrounding the house!"

CHAPTER IX

THE CLASH OF BLADES

On the table, near its middle, was an imposing
candelero in which half a score of candles burned
brightly. Senor Zorro sprang toward it now, and
with one sweep of his hand dashed it to the floor, ex-
tinguishing all the candles in an instant and plung-
ing the room in darkness.

He evaded the wild rush of Don Carlos, spring-
ing across the room so lightly that his soft boots
made not the slightest noise to give news of his
whereabouts. For an instant the Senorita Lolita
felt a man's arm around her waist, gently squeezing
it, felt a man's breath on her cheek, and heard a
man's whisper in her ear:

** Until later, senorita!"

Don Carlos was bellowing like a bull to direct the
soldiers to the scene ; and already some of them were
pounding at the front door. Senor Zorro rushed
from the room and into the one adjoining, which
happened to be the kitchen. The native servants
fled before him as if he had been a ghost, and he
quickly extinguished all the candles that burned
there.

Then he ran to the door that opened into the
patio, and raised his voice, and gave a call that was

64 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

half moan and half shriek, a peculiar call, the like
of which none at the Pulido hacienda had heard
before.

As the soldiers rushed in at the front door, and
as Don Carlos called for a brand with which to light
the candles again, the sound of galloping hoofs was
heard from the rear of the patio. Some powerful
horse was getting under way there, the soldiers
guessed immediately.

The sound of hoofs died away in the distance, but
the soldiers had noted the direction in which the
horse was traveling.

^^The fiend escapes !" Sergeant Gonzales shrieked,
he bemg in charge of the squad. ^*To horse, and
after him ! I give the man who overtakes him one-
third of all the reward!''

The big sergeant rushed from the house, the men
at his heels, and they tumbled into their saddles and
rode furiously through the darkness, following the
sound of the beating hoofs.

^'Lights! Lights!" Don Carlos was shrieking
inside the house.

A servant came with a brand, and the candles
were lighted again. Don Carlos stood in the mid-
dle of the room, shaking his fists in impotent rage.
Senorita Lolita crouched in a corner, her eyes wide
with fear. Dona Catalina, fully recovered now
from her fainting spell, came from her own room to
ascertain the cause of the commotion.

^'The rascal got away!" Don Carlos said. **It is
to be hoped that the soldiers capture him."

THE CLASH OF BLADES 65

*'At least, he is clever and brave," Senorita
Lolita said.

*'I grant him that, but he is a highwayman and a
thief!'' Don Carlos roared. ^^Why should he tor-
ment me by visiting my house?"

Senorita Lolita thought she knew, but she would
be the last one to explain to her parents. There
was a faint blush on her face yet because of the arm
that had squeezed her and the words that had been
whispered in her ear.

Don Carlos threw the front door open wide and
stood in it, listening. To his ears came the sound
of galloping hoofs once more.

^^My sword!" he cried to a servant. ^^Some one
comes — it may be the rascal returning! It is but
one rider, by the saints!"

The galloping stopped; a man made his way
across the veranda and hurried through the door
into the room.

^* Thank the good saints!" Don Carlos gasped.

It was not the highwayman returned ; it was Cap-
tain Ramon, comandanie of the presidio at Reina
de Los Angeles.

*^ Where are my men!" the captain cried.

*^Gone, senor! Gone after that pig of a highway-
man!" Don Carlos informed him.

^^He escaped?"

^*He did, with your men surrounding the house.
He dashed the candles to the floor, ran through the
kitchen — "

*^The men took after him?"

66 THE MAEK OF ZORRO

**Tliey are upon his heels, senor/'

*'Ha! It is to be hoped that they catch this
pretty bird. He is a thorn in the side of the sol-
diery. We do not catch him, and because we do
not the governor sends sarcastic letters by his
courier. This Senor Zorro is a clever gentleman,
but he will be captured yet ! ' '

And then Captain Ramon walked further into the
room, and perceived the ladies, and swept off his
cap and bowed before them.

^^You must pardon my bold entrance, '* he said.
**When an officer is on duty — '*

**The pardon is granted freely, '' said Dona Cata-
lina. *'You have met my daughter f

*^I have not had the honor.''

The dona presented them, and Lolita retreated to
her corner again and observed the soldier. He was
not ill to look at — tall and straight and in a brilliant
uniform, and with sword dangling at his side. As
for the captain, he never had set eyes upon Senorita
Lolita before, for he had been at the post at Reina
de Los Angeles but a month, having been trans-
ferred there from Santa Barbara.

But now that he had looked at her once he looked
a second time, and a third. There was a sudden
light in his eyes that pleased Dona Catalina. If
Lolita could not look with favor upon Don Diego
Vega, perhaps she would look with favor upon this
Captain Ramon, and to have her wedded to an offi-
cer would mean that the Pulido family would have
some protection.

THE CLASH OF BLADES 67

*^I could not find my men novr in the darkness,"
the captain said, ^*and so, if it is not presuming too
much, I shall remain here and await their return."

**By all means," Don Carlos said. **Be seated,
senovj and I'll have a servant fetch wine."

^^This Senor Zorro has about had his run," the
captain said, after the wine had been tasted and
found excellent. *^Now and then a man of his sort
pops up and endures for a little day, but he never
lasts long. In the end he meets the fate."

^^That is true," said Don Carlos. ^^The fellow
was boasting to us to-night of his accomplish-
ments."

*^I was comandante at Santa Barbara when he
made his famous visit there, ' ' the captain explained.
**I was visiting at one of the houses at the time else
there might have been a different story. And to-
night, when the alarm came, I was not at the presi-
dio, but at the residence of a friend. That is why
I did not ride out with the soldiers. As soon as I
was notified I came. It appears that this Senor
Zorro has some knowledge of my whereabouts and
is careful that I am not in a position to clash with
him. I hope one day to do so."

*^You think you could conquer him, senorf^' Dona
Catalina asked.

** Undoubtedly ! I understand he really is an
ordinary hand with a blade. He made a fool of my
sergeant, but that is a different proposition — and I
believe he held a pistol in one hand while he fenced,
too. I should make short work of the fellow."

68 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

There was a closet in one corner of the room, and
now its door was opened a crack.

"The fellow should die the death!'' Captain
Eamon went on to say. **He is brutal in his deal-
ings with men. He kills wantonly, I have heard.
They say he caused a reign of terror in the north,
in the vicinity of San Francisco de Asis. He slew
men regardless, insulted women — ''

The closet door was hurled open — and Senor
Zorro stepped into the room.

"I shall take you to task for that statement,
senor, since it is a falsehood!" the highwa^onan
cried.

Don Carlos whirled around and gasped his sur-
prise. Dona Catalina felt suddenly weak in the
knees and collapsed on a chair. Seiiorita Lolita felt
some pride in the man's statement, and a great deal
of fear for him.

"I — I thought you had escaped," Don Carlos
gasped.

"Ha! It was but a trick! My horse escaped —
but I did not!"

"Then there shall be no escape for you now!"
Captain Ramon cried, drawing his blade.

"Back, senor!" Zorro cried, exhibiting a pistol
suddenly. "I shall fight you gladly, but the fight
must be fair. Don Carlos, gather your wife and
daughter beneath your arms and retire to the corner
while I cross blades with this teller of falsehoods.
I do not intend to have a warning given out that I
still am here!"

THE CLASH OF BLADES 69

*'I thought — you escaped I" Don Carlos gasped
again, seemingly unable to think of anything else,
and doing as Senor Zorro commanded.

**A trick!'' the highwayman repeated, laughing.
**It is a noble horse I have. Perhaps you heard a
peculiar cry from my lips! My beast is trained to
act at that cry. He gallops away wildly, making
considerable noise, and the soldiers follow him.
And when he has gone some distance he turns aside
and stops, and after the pursuit has passed he re-
turns to await my bidding. No doubt he is behind
the patio now. I shall punish this captain, and
then mount and ride away!"

^^With a pistol in your hand!" Ramon cried.

^'I put the pistol upon the table — so! There it
remains if Don Carlos stays in the comer with the
ladies. Now, captain!"

Senor Zorro extended his blade, and with a glad
cry Captain Ramon crossed it with his own. Cap-
tain Ramon had some reputation as a master of
fence, and Senor Zorro evidently knew it, for he
was cautious at first, leaving no opening, on defense
rather than attack.

The captain pressed him back, his blade flashing
like streaks of lightning in a troubled sky. Now
Seiior Zorro was almost against the wall near the
kitchen door, and in the captain's eyes the light of
triumph already was beginning to burn. He fenced
rapidly, giving the highwayman no rest, standing
his ground and keeping his antagonist against the
wall.

70 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

And then Senor Zorro chuckled ! For now he had
solved the other's manner of combat, and knew that
all would be well. The captain gave ground a little
as the defense turned into an attack that puzzled
him. Senor Zorro began laughing lightly.

^^ 'Twere a shame to kill you/' he said. **You
are an excellent officer, I have heard, and the army
needs a few such. But you have spoken falsehood
regarding me, and so must pay a price. Presently
I shall run you through, but in such manner that
your life will not emerge when I withdraw my
blade.''

^^ Boaster!" the captain snarled.

*^As to that we shall see presently. Ha! I al-
most had you there, my captain. You are more
clever than your big sergeant, but not half clever
enough. "Where do you prefer to be touched — the
left side or the right?"

^'If you are so certain run me through the right
shoulder," the captain said.

*' Guard it well, my captain, for I shall do as you
say! Ha!"

The captain circled, trying to get the light of the
candles in the highwayman's eyes, but Sehor Zorro
was too clever for that. He caused the captain to
circle back, forced him to retreat, fought him to a
corner.

*'Now, my captain!" he cried.

And so he ran him through the right shoulder, as
the captain had said, and twisted the blade a bit as
he brought it out. He had struck a little low, and

THE CLASH OF BLADES 71

Captain Ramon dropped to the floor, a sudden weak-
ness upon him.

Senor Zorro stepped back and sheathed his blade.

**I ask the pardon of the ladies for this scene,"
he said. *'And I assure you that this time I am,
indeed, going away. You will find that the captain
is not badly injured, Don Carlos. He may return to
his presidio within the day.'^

He removed his sombrero and bowed low before
them, while Don Carlos sputtered and failed to think
of anything to say that would be mean and cutting
enough. His eyes, for a moment, met those of the
Senorita Lolita, and he was glad to find that in hers
there was no repugnance.

'^Buenas nocJies!^' he said and laughed again.

And then he dashed through the kitchen and into
the patio, and found the horse awaiting him there,
as he had said it would be, and was quick to mount
and ride away.

CHAPTEE X

A HINT AT JEALOUSY

Within the space of half an hour Captain
Eamon's wounded shoulder had been cleansed of
blood and bandaged, and the captain was sitting at
one end of the table, sipping wine and looking very
white in the face and tired.

Dona Catalina and Seiiorita Lolita had shown
much sympathy, though the latter could scarcely
refrain from smiling when she remembered the cap-
taints boast regarding what he purposed doing to
the highwayman, and compared it to what had hap-
pened. Don Carlos was outdoing himself to make
the captain feel at home since it was well to seek in-
fluence with the army, and already had urged upon
the officer that he remain at the hacienda a few days
until his wound had healed.

Having looked into the eyes of the Senorita Lolita,
the captain had answered that he would be glad to
remain at least for a day, and despite his wound was
attempting polite and witty conversation, yet failing
miserably.

Once more there could be heard the drumming of
a horse's hoofs, and Don Carlos sent a servant to
the door to open it so that the light would shine
out, for they supposed that it was one of the sol-
diers returning.

A HINT AT JEALOUSY 73

The horseman came nearer, and presently stopped
before the house, and the servant hurried out to
care for the beast.

There passed a moment during which those inside
the house heard nothing at all, and then there were
steps on the veranda, and Don Diego Vega hurried
through the door.

^'Ha!'' he cried, as if in relief. ''I am rejoiced
that you all are alive and well!"

*'Don Diego!" the master of the house exclaimed.
*^You have ridden out from the piiehlo sl second
time in one day?"

**No doubt I shall be ill because of it," Don Diego
said. ^^ Already I am feeling stiff and my back
aches. Yet I felt that I must come. There was an
alarm in the imehlOy and it was noised abroad that
this Senor Zorro, the highwayman, had paid a visit
to the hacienda, I saw the soldiers ride furiously
in this direction, and fear came into my heart. You
understand, Don Carlos, I feel sure."

^^I understand, cahallero/^ Don Carlos replied,
beaming upon him and glancing once at Senorita
Lolita.

* 'I — er — felt it my duty to make the journey. And
now I find that it has been made for naught — ^you
all are alive and well. How does it happen!"

Lolita sniffed, but Don Carlos was quick to make
reply.

^^The fellow was here, but he made his escape
after running Captain Ramon through the shoul-
der."

74 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

Ha!'' Don Diego said, collapsing into a chair.

So you have felt his steel; eh, captain? That
should feed your desire for vengeance. Your sol-
diers are after the rogue?"

''They are,'' the captain replied shortly, for he
did not like to have it said that he had been defeated
in combat. *'And they will continue to be after him
until he is captured. I have a big sergeant, Gon-
zales— I think he is a friend of yours, Don Diego —
who is eager to make the arrest and earn the gover-
nor's reward. I shall instruct him, when he returns,
to take his squad and pursue this highwayman until
he has been dealt with properly."

"Let me express the hope that the soldiers will
be successful, senor. The rogue has annoyed Don
Carlos and the ladies — and Don Carlos is my friend.
I would have all men know it!"

Don Carlos beamed, and Dona Catalina smiled
bewitchingly, but the Seiiorita Lolita fought to keep
her pretty upper lip from curling with scorn.

''A mug of your refreshing wine, Don Carlos,"
Don Diego Vega continued. ''I am fatigued.
Twice to-day have I ridden here from Reina de Los
Angeles, and it is about all a man can endure."

*' 'Tis not much of a journey — four miles," said
the captain.

''Possibly not for a rough soldier," Don Diego
replied, "but it is for a cahcUlero/^

"May not a soldier be a cahallerof Ramon asked,
nettled somewhat at the other's words.

* ' It has happened before now, but we come across

A HINT AT JEALOUSY 75

it rarely," Don Diego said. He glanced at Lolita
as he spoke, intending that she should take notice
of his words, for he had seen the manner in which
the captain glanced at her, and jealousy was begin-
ning to burn in his heart.

^^Do you mean to insinuate, senor^ that I am not
of good blood?" Captain Eamon asked.

*'I cannot reply as to that, senor, having seen
none of it. No doubt this Senor Zorro could tell
me. He saw the color of it, I understand."

^^By the saints!" Captain Ramon cried, ^'you
would taunt me!"

*^ Never be taunted by the truth," Don Diego ob-
served. *^He ran you through the shoulder, eh?
'Tis a mere scratch, I doubt not. Should you not
be at the presidio instructing your soldiers?"

^^I await their return here," the captain replied.
*^Also, it is a fatiguing journey from here to the
presidio, according to your own ideas, senor.''

^'But a soldier is inured to hardship, senor,''

*'True, there are many pests he must encounter,"
the captain said, glancing at Don Diego with mean-
ing.

**YoTi term me a pest, senor f"

**Did I say as much!"

This was perilous ground, and Don Carlos had no
mind to let an officer of the army and Don Diego
Vega have trouble in his hacienda, for fear he would
get into greater difficulties.

*'More wine, senores!" he exclaimed in a loud
voice, and stepping between their chairs in utter

76 THE MARK OF ZORRO

disregard of proper breeding. ^* Drink, my cap-
tain, for your wound lias made you weak. And you,
Don Diego, after your wild ride — "

**I doubt its wildness," Captain Ramon observed.

Don Diego accepted the proffered wine mug and
turned Ms back upon the captain. He glanced
across at Senorita Lolita and smiled. He got up
deliberately and picked up his chair, and carried
it across the room to set it down beside her.

^'And did the rogue frighten you, senorita f he
asked.

*' Suppose he did, senor? Would you avenge the
matter ? Would you put blade at your side and ride
abroad until you found him, and then punish him
as he deserves?"

^^By the saints, were it necessary, I might do
as much. But I am able to employ a raft of strong
fellows who would like nothing better than to run
down the rogue. Why should I risk my own neckf

*^0h!'' she exclaimed, exasperated.

*^Let us not talk further of this bloodthirsty Senor
Zorro," he begged. *^ There are other things fit for
conversation. Have you been thinking, senorita,
on the object of my visit earlier in the day I"

Senorita Lolita thought of it now. She remem-
bered again what the marriage would mean to her
parents and their fortunes, and she recalled the
highwayman, too, and remembered his dash and
spirit, and wished that Don Diego could be such a
man. And she could not say the word that would
make her the betrothed of Don Diego Vega.

A HINT AT JEALOUSY 77

*^I — I have scarcely had time to think of it, cabal-
lero/' she replied.

'^I trust you will make up your mind soon," he
said.

*^You are so eager?'*

^Oly father was at me again this afternoon. He
insists that I should take a wife as soon as possible.
It is rather a nuisance, of course, but a man must
please his father."

Lolita bit her lips because of her quick anger.
Was ever girl so courted before? she wondered.

**I shall make up my mind as soon as possible,
senor/' she said finally.

*'Does this Captain Kamon remain long at the
liacienda?^'

A little hope came into Lolita 's breast. Could it
be possible that Don Diego Vega was jealous? If
that were true, possibly there might be stuff in the
man, after all. Perhaps he would awaken, and love
and passion come to him, and he would be as other
young men.

*^My father has asked him to remain until he is
able to travel to the presidio/' she replied.

*'He is able to travel now. A mere scratch!"

*'You will not return to-night?" she asked.

**It probably will make me ill, but I must return.
There are certain things that must engage my in-
terest early in the morning. Business is such a
nuisance!"

*^ Perhaps my father will offer to send you in the
carriage."

78 THE MARK OF ZOERO

*'Ha! It were kindness if tie does. A man may
doze a bit in a carriage.''

*'But, if this highwayman should stop you?"

^^I need not fear, senorita. Have I not wealth?
Could I not purchase my release!"

^'You would pay ransom rather than fight him,
senorf

*^I have lots of money, but only one life, senorita.
Would I be a wise man to risk having my blood let
out?"

**It would be the manly part, would it not?" she
asked.

*'Aiiv male can be manlv at times, but it takes a
<jlever man to be sagacious," he said.

Don Diego laughed lightly, as if it cost him an
effort, and bent forward to speak in lower tones.

On the other side of the room, Don Carlos was
doing his best to make Captain Eamon comfortable,
and was glad that he and Don Diego remained apart
for the time being.

*'Don Carlos," the captain said, *^I come from a
good family, and the governor is friendly toward
me, as no doubt you have heard. I am but twenty-
three years of age, else I would hold a higher office.
But my future is assured."

^^I am rejoiced to learn it, senor/'

**I never set eyes upon your daughter until this
evening, but she has captivated me, senor. Never
have I seen such grace and beauty, such flashing
eyes ! I ask your permission, senor, to pay my ad-
dresses to the senorita/'

CHAPTER XI

THEEE SUITORS

Here was a fix ! Don Carlos had no wish to anger
Don Diego Vega or a man who stood high in the
governor's regard. And how was he to evade it?
If Lolita could not force her heart to accept Don
Diego, perhaps she could learn to love Captain
Eamon. After Don Diego, he was the best poten-
tial son-in-law in the vicinity.

**Your answer, senorf the captain was asking.

*'I trust you will not misunderstand me, senor/'
Don Carlos said, in lower tones. ^'I must make a
simple explanation."

*^ Proceed, senor/'

**But this morning Don Diego Vega asked me the
same question,"

^^Ha!"

^^You know his blood and his family, senor.
Could I refuse him! Of rights I could not. But I
may tell you this — the senorita weds no man unless
it is her wish. So Don Diego has my permission to
pay his addresses, but if he fails to touch her
heart — "

*'Then I may try?" the captain asked.

'*You have my permission, senor. Of course,
Don Diego has great wealth, but you have a dashing

80 THE MAEK OF ZOERO

Tray with you, and Don Diego — that is — ^he is
rather — "

^'I understand perfectly, sefior/' the captain said,
laughing. ^'He is not exactly a brave and dashing
caballero. Unless your daughter prefers wealth to
a genuine man — "

*'My daughter will follow the dictates of her
heart, senorf' Don Carlos said proudly.

''Then the* affair is between Don Diego Vega and
myself?"

''So long as you use discretion, senor. I would
hare nothing ha^Dpen that would cause enmity be-
tween the Vega family and mine."

"Your interests shall be protected, Don Carlos,"
Captain Ramon declared.

As Don Diego talked, the Senorita Lolita observed
her father and Captain Ramon, and guessed what
was being said. It pleased her, of course, that a
da shins: officer should enter the lists for her hand,
and yet she had felt no thrill when first she looked
into his eyes.

Seiior Zorro, now, had thrilled her to the tips of
her tinv toes, and merely because he had talked to
her, and touched the palm of her hand with his
lips. If Don Diego Vega were only more like the
highwayman ! If some man appeared who combined
Vega's wealth with the rogue's spirit and dash and
courage !

There was a sudden tumult outside, and .into the
room strode the soldiers. Sergeant Gonzales at their
head. They saluted their captain, and the big ser-

THREE SUITOES 81

geant looked with wonder at his wounded shoulder.

^'The rogue escaped us," Gonzales reported.
'*We followed him for a distance of three miles or
so, as he made his way into the hills, where we came
upon him.''

'*Welir' Eamon questioned.

*^He has allies."

'^What is this?"

*' Fully ten men were waiting for him there, my
captain. They set upon us before we were aware of
their presence. We fought them well, and three of
them we wounded, but they made their escape and
took their comrades with them. We had not been
expecting a band, of course, and so rode into their
ambush. ' '

*^Then we have to contend with a band of them!"
Captain Eamon said. *' Sergeant, you will select a
score of men in the morning, and have command
over them. You will take the trail of this Senor
Zorro, and you will not stop until he is either cap-
tured or slain. I will add a quarter's wages to the
reward of his excellency, the governor, if you are
successful."

''Ha ! It is what I have wished!" Sergeant Gon-
zales cried. ''Now we shall run this coyote to earth
in short order! I shall show you the color of his
blood—"

" 'Twould be no more than right, since he has
seen the color of the captain's," Don Diego put in.

"What is this, Don Diego, my friend? Captain,
you have crossed blades with the rogue?"

82 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

**I have/^ the captain assented. *^You but fol-
lowed a tricky horse, my sergeant. The fellow was
here, in a closet, and came out after I had entered.
So it must have been some other man you met with
his companions up in the hills. This Senor Zorro
treated me much as he treated you in the tavern —
had a pistol handy in case I should prove too expert
with the blade."

Captain and sergeant looked at each other
squarely, each wondering how much the other had
been lying; while Don Diego chuckled faintly and
tried to press the Senorita Lolita's hand, and failed.

'^This thing can be settled only in blood!" Gon-
zales declared. **I shall pursue the rascal until he
is run to earth. I have permission to select my
men?"

**You may take any at the presidio/' the captain
said.

*' Sergeant G-onzales, I should like to go with
you," Don Diego said suddenly.

**By the saints! It would kill you, cahallero!
Day and night in the saddle, up hill and do^Ti hill,
through dust and heat, and with a chance at fight-
ing!"

*'Well, perhaps it were best for me to remain in
the puehlo/^ Don Diego admitted. *'But he has
annoyed this family, of which I am a true friend.
At least, you will keep me informed ? You will tell
me how he escapes if he dodges you? I at least may
know that you are on his trail, and where you are
riding, so I may be mth you in spirit!"

THREE SUITORS 83

*' Certainly, cah oiler o — certainly !' ' Sergeant Gon-
zales replied. ' ' I shall give you the chance of look-
ing upon the rogue's dead face. I swear it!^'

** 'Tis a terrible oath, my sergeant. Suppose it
should come to pass — "

**I mean, if I slay the rascal, caballero. My cap-
tain, do you return this night to the presidio V^

*^Yes,^' Ramon replied. ^'Despite my wound, I
can ride a horse."

He glanced toward Don Diego as he spoke, and
there was almost a sneer upon his lips.

^'TVhat magnificent grit!" Don Diego said. *%
too, shall return to Reina de Los Angeles, if Don
Carlos will be as good as to have his carriage
around. I can tie my horse to the rear of it. To
ride horseback the distance again this day would
be the death of me ! ' '

Gonzales laughed and led the way from the house.
Captain Ramon paid his respects to the, ladies,
glowered at Don Diego, and followed. The caballero
faced Senorita Lolita again as her parents escorted
the captain to the door.

^'You will think of the matter!" he asked. *^My
father will be at me again within a few days, and
I shall escape censure if I am able to tell him that
it is all settled. If you decide to wed me, have your
father send me word by a servant. Then I shall
put my house- in order against the wedding day."

**I shall think of it," the girl said.

*'We could be married at the mission of San
Gabriel, only we should have to make the confounded

84 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

journey there. Fray Felipe, of the mission, has
"been my friend from the days of my boyhood, and
I would have him say the words, unless you prefer
otherwise. He could come to Eeina de Los Angeles
and read the ceremony in the little church on the
plaza there."

^^I shall think of it," the girl said again.

'^Perhaps I may come out again to see you with-
in a few davs, if I survive this ni2:ht. Bicefias
■noches, senorita! I suppose I should — er — ^kiss
your hand?"

"You need not take the trouble," Senorita Lolita
replied. "It might fatigue you."

"Ah — thank you! You are thoughtful, I see. I
am fortunate if I get me a thoughtful wife."

Don Diego sauntered to the door. Senorita
Lolita rushed into her own room and beat at her
breasts with her hands, and tore at her hair a
bit, too angry, too enraged to weejD. Kiss her hand,
indeed ! Senor Zorro had not suggested it — he had
done it. Senor Zorro had dared death to visit her !
Senor Zorro had laughed as he fought, and then had
escaped by a trick! Ah, if Don Diego Vega were
half the man this highwayman appeared !

She heard the soldiers gallop away, and after a
little time she heard Don Diego Vega depart in her
father's carriage. And then she went out into the
great room again to her parents.

"My father, it is impossible that I wed with Don
Diego Vega," she said.

"What has caused your decision, my daughter!"

THREE SUITOES 85

*^I scarcely can tell, except that he is not the sort
of man I wish for ray husband. He is lifeless ; exist-
ence with him would be a continual torment."

** Captain Eamon also has asked permission to
pay you his addresses," Dona Catalina said.

^*And he is almost as bad. I do not like the look
in his eyes," the girl replied.

*'Tou are too particular,"' Don Carlos told her.
*'If the persecution continues another year we shall
be beggars. Here is the best catch in the country
seeking you, and you would refuse him. And you
do not like a high army officer because you do not
fancy the look in his eyes!

** Think on it, girl! An alliance with Don Diego
Vega is much to be desired. Perhaps, when you
know him better, you will like him more. And the
man may awaken. I thought I saw a flash of it
this night, deemed him jealous because of the pres-
ence of the captain here. If you can arouse his
jealousy — "

Seiiorita Lolita burst into tears, but soon the tem-
pest of weeping passed, and she dried her eyes.

^^I — I shall do my best to like him," she said.
**But I cannot bring myself to say, yet, that I will
be his wife."

She hurried into her room again, and called for
the native woman who attended her. Soon the
house was in darkness, and the grounds about it,
save for the fires down by the adobe huts, where
the natives told one another grim tales of the night's
events, each trying to make his falsehood the great-

86 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

est. A gentle snore came from the apartment of
Don Carlos Pulido and liis wife.

But the Senorita Lolita did not slumber. She had
her head propped on one hand, and she was looking
through a window at the fires in the distance, and
her mind was full of thoughts of Seiior Zorro.

She remembered the grace of his bow, the music
of his deep voice, the touch of his lips upon her
palm.

*'I would he were not a rogue!'' she sighed.
'*How a woman could love such a man!''

CHAPTER Xn

A VISIT

Shortly after daybreak the following morning
there was considerable tumult in the plaza at Eeina
de Los Angeles. Sergeant Pedro Gonzales was
there with a score of troopers, almost all that were
stationed at the local presidio, and they were pre-
paring for the chase of Seiior Zorro.

The big sergeant's voice roared out above the
din as men adjusted saddles and looked to bridles
and inspected their water-bottles and small supplies
of provisions. For Sergeant Gonzales had ordered
that his force travel light, and live off the country
as much as possible. He had taken the commands
of his captain seriously — he was going after Senor
Zorro, and did not propose to return until he had
him — or had died in an effort to effect a capture.

**I shall nail the fellow's pelt to the presidio door,
my friend, ' ' he told the fat landlord. ' ' Then I shall
collect the governor's reward and pay the score I
owe you."

*'I pray the saints it may be true!" the landlord
said.

''What, fool! That I pay you? Do you fear to
lose a few small coins!"

*'I meant that I pray you may be successful in

88 THE MAEK OF ZOERO

capturing the man,'' the landlord said, telling the
falsehood giibly.

Captain Ramon was not up to see the start, having
a small fever because of his wound, but the people
of the pueblo crowded around Sergeant Gonzales
and his men, asking a multitude of questions, and
the sergeant found, himself the center of interest.

^^This Curse of Capistrano soon shall cease to
exist!'' he boasted loudly. ** Pedro Gonzales is
on his trail. Ha ! When I stand face to face with
the fellow — ''

• The front door of Don Diego Vega's house opened
at that juncture, and Don Diego himself appeared,
at which the townsmen wondered a bit, since it
was so early in the morning. Sergeant Gonzales
dropped a bundle he was handling, put his hands
upon his hips, and looked at his friend with sudden
interest.

^*You have not been to bed," he charged.

*^But I have!" Don Diego declared.

** And are up again so soon? Here is some devil-
ish mystery that needs an explanation ! ' '

'^You made noise enough to awaken the dead,''
Don Diego said.

**It could not be helped, cdballero, since we are
acting under orders."

*'Were it not possible to make your preparations
at the presidio instead of here in the plaza, or did
you think not enough persons would see your im-
portance there?"

**Now, by th(^"

A VISIT 89

*^Do not say it!'' Don Diego commanded. **As a
matter of fact, I am up early because I must make
a confounded trip to my hacienda, a journey of some
ten miles, to inspect the flocks and herds. Never be-
come a wealthy man, Sergeant Gonzales, for wealth
asks too much of a man."

^'Something tells me that never shall I suffer on
that account," said the sergeant, laughing. ''You
go with escort, my friend T'

''A couple of natives, that is all."

*'If you should meet up with this Senor Zorro, he
probably would hold you for a pretty ransom."

*'Is he supposed to be between this place and my
hacienda? ''^ Don Diego asked.

''A native arrived a short time ago with word that
he had been seen on the road running to Pala and
San Luis Key. We ride in that direction. And
since your hacienda is the other way, no doubt
you will not meet the rascal now."

''I feel somewhat relieved to hear you say it. So
you ride toward Pala, my sergeant?"

''We do. We shall try to pick up his trail as soon
as possible, and once we have it we shall run this
fox down. Meanwhile, we also shall attempt to find
his den. We start at once."

"I shall await news eagerly," Don Diego said.
*'Good fortune go with you!"

Gonzales and his men mounted, and the sergeant
shouted an order, and they galloped across the plaza,
raising great clouds of dust, and took the highway
toward Pala and San Luis Rey.

90 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

Don Diego looked after them until nothing conld
be seen but a tiny dust-cloud in the distance, then
called for his own horse. He, too, mounted and rode
away toward San Gabriel, and two native servants
rode mules and followed a short distance behind.

But before he departed, Don Diego wrote a mes-
sage and sent it by native courier to the Pulido
hacienda. It was addressed to Don Carlos, and
read:

The soldiers are starting this morning to pursue this
Senor Zorro, and it has been reported that the highwayman
has a band of rogues under his command and may offer
battle. There is no telling, my friend, what may happen.
I dislike having one in whom I am interested subjected to
danger, meaning your daughter particularly, but also the
Dona Catalina and yourself. Moreover, this bandit saw
your daughter last evening, and certainly must have appre-
ciated her beauty, and he may seek to see her again.

I beg of you to come at once to my house in Reina de Los
Angeles, and make it as your home until matters are
settled. I am leaving this morning for my liacienda, but
have left orders with my servants that you are to give what
commands you wiU. I shall hope to see you when I re-
turn, which will be in two or three days.

Diego.

Don Carlos read that epistle aloud to his wife and
daughter, and then looked up to see how they took
it. He scoffed at the danger himself, being an old ^
war-horse, but did not wish to put his womenfolk in
jeopardy.

A VISIT 91

**"Wliat think you?" he asked.

**It has been some time since we have visited the
pueblo/^ Doiia Catalina said. ^'I have some friends
left among the ladies there. I think it will be an
excellent thing to do."

**It certainly will not injure our fortunes to have
it become known we are house guests of Don Diego
Vega," Don Carlos said. ^'What does our daugh-
ter think?"

It was a concession to ask her, and Lolita realized
that she was granted this unusual favor because of
Don Diego's wooing. She hesitated some time be-
fore answering.

'^I believe it will be all right," she said. '*!
should like to visit the pueblo, for we see scarcely
anybody here at the hacienda. But people may
talk concerning Don Diego and myself."

^^ Nonsense!" Don Carlos exploded. ^^ Could
there be anything more natural than that we should
visit the Vegas, since our blood is almost as good as
theirs and better than that of others?"

'^But it is Don Diego's house, and not that of
his father. Still — ^he will not be there for two or
three days, he says, and we can return when he
comes."

*^Then it is settled!" Don Carlos declared. **I
shall see my superintendent and give him instruc-
tions."

He hurried into the patio and rang the big bell
for the superintendent, being well pleased. For
when the Senorita Lolita saw the rich furnishings

92 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

in the house of Don Diego Vega, she might the
more readily accept Don Diego as a husband, he
thought. ^Alien she saw the silks and satins, the
elegant tapestries, the furniture inlaid with gold
and studded with precious stones, when she real-
ized that she could be mistress of this and much
more besides — Don Carlos flattered himself that
he knew the feminine heart.

Soon after the siesta hour, a carreta was brought
before the door, drawn by mules and driven by a
native. Dona Catalina and Lolita got into it, and
Don Carlos bestrode his best horse and rode at
its side. And so they went down the trail to the
highway, and down the highway toward Eeina de
Los Angeles.

They passed folk who marveled to see the Pulido
family thus going abroad, for it was well known
that they had met with ill fortune and scarcely went
anywhere now. It was even whispered that the
ladies did not keep up with the fashions, and that
the servants were poorly fed, but remained at the
hacienda because their master was so kind.

But Dona Catalina and her daughter held their
heads proudly, as did Don Carlos, and they greeted
the people they knew, and so continued along the
highway.

Presently they made a turning and could see the
pueblo in the distance — the plaza, and the church
%vith its high cross on one side of it, and the inn
and storehouses, and a few residences of the more

A VISIT

pretentious sort, like Don Diego's, and the scattered
huts of natives and poor folk.

The carreta stopped before Don Diego's door, and
servants rushed out to make the guests welcome,
spreading a carpet from the carreta to the doorway,
that the ladies would not have to step in the dust.
Don Carlos led the way into the house, after order-
ing that the horse and mules be cared for and the
carreta put away, and there they rested for a time,
and the servants brought out wine and food.

They went through the rich house then, and even
the eyes of Doiia Catalina, who had seen many rich
houses, widened at what she saw here in Don Diego's
home.

**To think that our daughter can be mistress of
all this when she speaks the word!" she gasped.

Senorita Lolita said nothing, but she began think-
ing that perhaps it would not be so bad after all to
become the wife of Don Diego. She was fighting a
mental battle, was Senorita Lolita. On the one side
was wealth and position, and the safety and good
fortune of her parents — -and a lifeless man for hus-
band; and on the other side was the romance and
ideal love she craved. Until the last hope was gone
she could not give the latter up.

Don Carlos left the house and crossed the plaza
to the inn, where he met several gentlemen of age,
and renewed acquaintance with them, albeit he no-
ticed that none was enthusiastic in his greeting.
They feared, he supposed, to appear openly friendly

94 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

to him, since lie was in the bad graces of the gover-
nor.

''You are in the puehlo on business!'* one asked.

**Not so, senor," Don Carlos replied, and gladly,
since here was a chance to set himself right in part.
''This Senor Zorro is abroad, and the soldiers after
him.''

"We are aware of that."

' ' There may be a battle, or a series of raids, since
it is whispered that now Senor Zorro has a band of
cutthroats with him, and my hacienda is off by itself
and would be at the mercy of the thief."

"Ah! And so you bring your family to the
puehlo until the matter is at an end?"

"I had not thought of doing so, but this morning
Don Diego Vega sent out to me a request that I
bring my family here and make use of his house for
the time being. Don Diego has gone to his hacienda,
but will return within a short time."

The eyes of those who heard opened a bit at that,
but Don Carlos pretended not to notice, and went
on sipping his wine.

"Don Diego was out to visit me yesterday morn-
ing," he continued. "We renewed old times. And
my hacienda had a visit from this Senor Zorro last
night, as doubtless you have heard, and Don Diego,
learning of it, galloped out again, fearing we had
met with disaster."

"Twice in one day!" gasped one of those who
heard.

"I have said it, senor,'

A VISIT 95

**You — that is — your daughter is very beautiful,
is she not, Don Carlos Pulido? And seventeen, is
she not — about?"

** Eighteen, senor. She is called beautiful, I be-
lieve," Don Carlos admitted.

Those around him glanced at one another. They
had the solution now. Don Diego Vega was seek-
ing to wed Senorita Lolita Pulido. That meant that
Pulido's fortunes would soon be at the flood again,
and that he might feel called upon to remember his
friends and look askance at those who had not
stood by him.

So now they crowded forward, alert to do him
honor, and asked concerning crops and the increase
of his herds and flocks, and whether the bees were
doing as well as usual, and did he think the olives
were excellent this year.

Don Carlos appeared to take it all as a matter
of course. He accepted the wine they bought and
purchased himself, and the fat landlord darted about
doing their bidding and trying to compute the day's
profits in his head, which was a hopeless task for
him.

When Don Carlos left the inn at dusk, several of
them followed him to the door, and two of the more
influential walked with him across the plaza to the
door of Don Diego's house. One of these begged
that Don Carlos and his wife visit his house that
evening for music and talk, and Don Carlos gra-
ciously accepted the invitation.

Dona Catalina had been watching from a window,

96 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

and her face was beaming when she met her husband
at the door.

'^Everything goes well,'' he said. ''They have
met me with open arms. And I have accepted an
invitation to visit to-night."

"But Lolitaf" Dona Catalina protested.

"She must remain here, of course. Will it not
be all right? There are half a hundred servants
about. And I have accepted the invitation, my
dear!"

Such a chance to win favor again could not be
disregarded, of course, and so Lolita was made
acquainted with the arrangement. She was to re-
main in the great living-room, reading a volume of
verse she had found there, and if she grew sleepy
she was to retire to a certain chamber. The ser-
vants would guard her, and the despensero would
look after her wishes personally.

Don Carlos and his wife went to make their eve-
ning visit, being lighted across the plaza by half
a dozen natives who held torches in their hands, for
the night was without a moon and rain was threaten-
ing again.

Senorita Lolita curled up on a couch, the volume
of verse in her lap, and began to read. Each verse
treated of love, romance, passion. She marveled
that Don Diego would read such, being so lifeless
himself, but the volume showed that it had been
much handled. She sprang from the couch to look
at other books on a bench not far away. And her
amazement increased.

A VISIT 97

Volume after volume of poets who sang of love;
volumes that had to do with horsemanship; books
that had been written at the dictation of masters of
fence; tales of great generals and warriors were
there.

Surely these volumes were not for a man of Don
Diego's blood, she told herself. And then she
thought that perhaps he reveled in them, though not
in the manner of life they preached. Don Diego
was something of a puzzle, she told herself for the
hundredth time ; and she went back and began read-
ing the poetry again.

Then Captain Ramon hammered at the front door.

CHAPTER Xm

LOVE COMES SWIFTLY

The despensero Imrried to open it.

**I regret that Don Diego is not at home, senor/*
he said. **He has gone to his hacienda/^

^'1 know as much. Don Carlos and wife and
daughter are here, are they notT'

^^Don Carlos and his wife are out on a visit this
evening, senor/'

'^The senorita — '^

**Is here, of course.''

**In that case, I shall pay my respects to the
senorita," Captain Eamon said.

^^Senor! Pardon me, but the little lady is alone."

'*Am I not a proper man!" the captain demanded.

**It — it is scarcely right for her to receive the
visit of a gentleman when her duena is not present."

**Who are you, to speak to me of the proprie-
ties ? ' ' Captain Ramon demanded. * * Out of my way,
scum! Cross me, and you shall be punished. I
know things concerning you!"

The face of the despensero went white at that,
for the captain spoke the truth, and at a word could
cause him considerable trouble and mayhap a term
in cdrcel. Yet he knew what was right.

^^But, senor — " he protested.

Captain Ramon thrust him aside with his left

LOVE COMES STVIFTLY 99

arm, and stalked into the big living-room. Lolita
sprang up in alarm Tvhen she saw him standing be-
fore her.

**Ah, senorita, I trust that I did not startle you,"
he said. *'I regret that your parents are absent,
yet must have a few words with you. This servant
would deny me entrance, but I imagine you have
naught to fear from a man with one wounded
arm. ' '

**It — ^it is scarcely proper, is it, senor?'^ the girl
asked, a bit frightened.

"I feel sure no harm can come of it," he said.

He went across the room and sat down on one end
of the couch, and admired her beauty frankly. The
despensero hovered near.

**Go to your kitchen, fellow!" Captain Ramon
commanded.

* ^ No ; allow him to remain, ' ' Lolita begged. ^ ^ My
father commanded it, and he courts trouble if he
leaves."

* * And if he remains. Go, fellow ! ' '
The servant went.

Captain Ramon turned toward the* girl again, and
smiled upon her. He flattered himself* that he knew
women — they loved to see a man show mastery over
other men.

**More beautiful than ever, senorita/' he said in
a purring voice. **I really am glad to find you thus
alone, for there is something I would say to you."

''What can that be, senorf

**Last night at your father's hacienda I asked

100 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

his permission to pay my addresses to you. Your
beauty has inflamed my heart, senorita, and I would
have you for my wife. Your father consented, ex-
cept that he said Don Diego Vega also had received
permission. So it appears that it lies between Don
Diego and myself."

** Should you speak of it, senorf she asked.

** Certainly Don Diego Vega is not the man for
you," he went on. *'Has he courage, spirit? Is he
not a laughing-stock because of his weakness?"

**You speak ill of him in his own house!" the
senorita asked, her eyes flashing.

*'I speak the truth, senorita. I would have your
favor. Can you not look upon me with kindness?
Can you not give me hope that I may win your
heart and hand?"

** Captain Eamon, all this is unworthy," she said.
•'It is not the proper manner, and you know it. I
beg you to leave me now."

'*I await your answer, senorita,' '

Her outraged pride rose up at that. Why could
she not be wooed as other senoritas, in the proper
fashion? Why was this man so bold in his words?
Why did he disregard the conventions?

*'You must leave me," she said firmly. ''This is
all wrong, and you are aware of it. Would you
make my name a by-word. Captain Ramon? Sup-
pose somebody was to come and find us like this —
alone?"

"Nobody will come, senorita. Can you not give

me an answer?"

LOVE COMES SWIFTLY 101

**No!" she cried, starting to get to her feet. ^'It
is not right that you should ask it. My father, I
assure you, shall hear of this visit!"

**Your father!" he sneered. '^A man who has
the ill-will of the governor! A man who is being
plucked because he possessed no political sense!
I fear not your father ! He should be proud of the
fact that Captain Eamon looks at his daughter."

^^Bo not run away!" he said, clutching her hand.
**I have done you the honor to ask you to be my
wife — "

'*Done me the honor!" she cried angrily, and al-
most in tears. ' 'It is the man who is done the honor
when a woman accepts him."

**I like you when you rage," he observed. ^'Sit
down again — beside me, here. And now give me
your answer!"

^'You will wed me, of course. I shall intercede
with the governor for your father and get a part of
his estate restored. I shall take you to San Fran-
cisco de Asis, to the governor's house, where you
will be admired by persons of rank!"

^'Senor! Let me go!"

*'My answer, senorita! You have held me off
enough ! ' '

She wrenched away from him, confronted him
with blazing eyes, her tiny hands clenched at her
sides.

**Wed with you?" she cried. ^^ Rather would I

102 THE MAEK OF ZORRO

remain a maid all my life, rather would I wed with
a native, rather would I die than wed with you ! I
wed a caballero, a gentleman, or no man! And I
cannot say that you are such ! ' '

^* Pretty words from the daughter of a man who
is about ruined."

^^Ruin would not change the blood of the Pulidos,
senor. I doubt whether you understand that, evi-
dently having ill-blood yourself. Don Diego shall
hear of this. He is my father's friend — "

**And you would wed the rich Don Diego, eh, and
straighten out your father's affairs? You would
not wed an honorable soldier, but would sell your-
self—"

^^ Senor f she shrieked.

This was beyond endurance. She was alone,
there was nobody near to resent the insult. So her
blood called upon her to avenge it herself.

Like a flash of lightning her hand went forward,
and came against Captain Ramon's cheek with a
crack. Then she sprang backward, but he grasped
her by an arm, and drew her toward him.

^^I shall take a kiss to pay for that!" he said.
* ' Such a tiny bit of womanhood can be handled with
one arm, thank the saints!"

She fought him, striking and scratching at his
breast, for she could not reach his face. But he
only laughed at her, and held her tighter until she
was almost spent and breathless, and finally he
threw back her head and looked down into her
eyes.

LOVE COMES SWIFTLY 103

**A kiss in payment, senorita!'^ he said. **It will
be a pleasure to tame such a wild one.''

She tried to fight again, but could not. She called
upon the saints to aid her. And Captain Eamon
laughed more, and bent his head, and his lips came
close to hers.

But he never claimed the kiss. She started to
wrench away from him again, and he was forced to
strengthen his arm and pull her forward. And
from a corner of the room there came a voice that
was at once deep and stem.

**One moment, senor!'' it said.

Captain Ramon released the girl and whirled on
one heel. He blinked his eyes to pierce the gloom of
the corner ; he heard Sehorita Lolita give a glad cry.

Then Captain Eamon, disregarding the presence
of the lady, cursed, once and loudly, for Senor Zorro
stood before him.

He did not pretend to know how the highwayman
had entered the house ; he did not stop to think of it.
He realized that he was without a blade at his side,
and that he could not use it had he one, because of
his wounded shoulder. And Senor Zorro was walk-
ing toward him from the corner.

*^ Outlaw I may be, but I respect women!'' the
Curse of Capistrano said. **And you, an officer of
the army, do not, it appears. What are you doing
here. Captain Ramon?"

^*And what do you here?"

**I heard a lady's scream, which is warrant
enough for a cahallero to enter any place, senor. It

104 THE MAEK OF ZORRO

appears to me that you have broken all the conven*
tions/'

** Perhaps the lady has broken them also.''

'^SenorT' roared the highwayman. "Another
thought like that and I cut you down where you
stand, though you are a wounded man ! How shall
I punish youl"

^*Despensero! Natives!" the captain shouted
suddenly. * ' Here is Sefior Zorro ! A reward if you
take him!"

The masked man laughed. ** 'Twill do you small
good to call for help," he said. ^ ^ Spend your breath
in saying your prayers, rather!"

*'You do well to threaten a wounded man."

**You deserve death, senor, but I suppose I must
allow you to escape that. But you will go down
upon your knees and apologize to this senorita!
And then you will go from this house, slink from it
like the cur you are, and keep your mouth closed
regarding what has transpired here. If you do
not, I promise to soil my blade with your life's
blood!"

"Ha!"

"On your knees, senor, and instantly!" Senor
Zorro commanded. "I have no time to waste in
waiting. ' '

"I am an officer — "

"On your knees !" commanded Senor Zorro again,
in a terrible voice. He sprang forward and grasped
Captain Ramon by his well shoulder, and threw him
to the floor.

LOVE COMES SWIFTLY 106

Quickly, poltroon! Tell the senorita tliat you
humbly beg her pardon — which she will not grant,
of course, since you are beneath speaking to — and
that you will not annoy her again! Say it, or, by
the saints, you have made your last speech!"

Captain Ramon said it. And then Seiior Zorro
grasped him by the neck and lifted him, and pro-
pelled him to the door, and hurled him into the dark-
ness. And had his boots not been soft, Captain
Ramon would have been injured more deeply, both
in feelings and anatomy.

Senor Zorro closed the door as the despensero
came running into the room, to stare in fright at the
masked man.

^^ Senorita, I trust that I have been of service, '^
the highwayman said. *'That scoundrel will not
bother you further, else he feels the sting of my
blade again. '^

**0h, thank you, senor — thank you!" she cried.
'*I shall tell my father this good deed you have
done. Despensero, get him wine!"

There was naught for the butler to do except obey,
since she had voiced the order, and he hurried from
the room, pondering on the times and the man-
ners.

Senorita Lolita stepped to the man's side.

^^ Senor/ ^ she breathed, '^you saved me from in-
sult. You saved me from the pollution of that man's
lips. Senor, though you deem me unmaidenly, I
offer you freely the kiss he would have taken!"

She put up her face, and closed her eyes.

106 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

^^ And I shall not look when you raise your mask,'^
she said.

*'It were too much, senorita/' he said. *^Your
hand — but not your lips.'*

*^You shame me, senor! I was bold to offer it,
and you have refused."

**You shall feel no shame,'' he said.

He bent swiftly, raised the bottom of his mask,
and touched lightly her lips with his.

'^Ah, senoritaf he said. '*I would I were an
honest man and could claim you openly. My heart
is filled with love of you ! ' '

**And mine with love of you!"

*^This is madness! None must know!"

*^I would not fear to tell the world, senor!"-

*^Your father and his fortunes! Don Diego!"

*'I love you, senor/'

**Your chance to be a great lady! Do you think
I did not know Don Diego was the man you meant
when we spoke in your father's patio f This is a
whim, senorita/'

**It is love, senor , whether anything comes of it
or not. And a Pulido does not love twice."

''What possibly could come of it but distress?"

''We shall see. God is good!"

"It is madness — "

"Sweet madness, senor!''

He clasped her to him and bent his head again,
and again she closed her eyes and took his kiss,
only this time the kiss was longer. She made no
effort to see his face.

LOVE COMES SWIFTLY 107

*'I may be ngly," lie said.

**ButIlove you."

'* Disfigured, senorita — "

*^ Still, I love you!''

**Wliat hope can we have?"

''Go, senor, before my parents return. I shall
say nothing except that you saved me from insult
and then went your way again. They will think
that you came to rob Don Diego. And turn honest,
senor, for my sake ! Turn honest, I say, and claim

me.

''No man knows your face, and if you take off
your mask forever, none ever will know your guilt.
It is not as if you were an ordinary thief. I know
why you have stolen— to avenge the helpless, to
punish cruel politicians, to aid the oppressed! I
know that you have given what you have stolen to
the poor. Oh, senorf'

"But my task is not yet done, senorita, and I feel
called upon to finish it."

"Then finish it, and may the saints guard you,
as I feel sure they will. And when it is finished,
come back to me! I shall know you in whatever
garb you come ! ' '

"Nor shall I wait that long, senorita. I shaU see
you often. I could not exist else!"

"Guard yourself!"

"I shall in truth, now, since I have double reason.
Life never was so sweet as now!"

He backed away from her slowly. He turned and
glanced toward a window near at hand.

108 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

**I must go," he said. *^I cannot wait for the
wine."

^^That was but a subterfuge so that we could be
alone," she confessed.

^^ Until the next time, senorita, and may it not
be long!"

^*0n guard, senorf

^^ Always, loved one! Senorita, a Bios!"

Again their eyes met, and then he waved his hand
at her, gathered his cloak close about his body,
darted to the window and went through it. The
darkness outside swallowed him.

CHAPTER XIV

CAPTAIN EAMOX WEITES A LETTEE

Picking himself up out of the dust before Don
Diego Vega's door, Captain Eamon darted through
the darkness to the footpath that ran up the slope
toward the presidio.

His blood was aflame with rage, his face was
purple with wrath. There remained at the presidio
no more than half a dozen soldiers, for the greater
part of the garrison had gone with Sergeant Gon-
zales, and of these half dozen four were on the sick
list and two were necessary as guards.

So Captain Ramon could not send men down to
the Vega house in an effort to effect a capture of
the highwa^Tnan; moreover, he decided that Senor
Zorro would not remain there more than a few
minutes, but would mount his horse and ride away,
for the highwayman had a name for not resting long
in one place.

Besides, Captain Ramon had no wish to let it be-
come known that this Senor Zorro had met him a
second time, and had treated him much like a peon.
Could he give out the information that he had in-
sulted a senorita, and that Senor Zorro had pun-
ished him because of it ; that Senor Zorro had caused
Mm to get down upon his knees and apologize, and

109

110 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

then had kicked him through the front door like a
dog?

The captain decided it were better to say nothing
of the occurrence. He supposed that Senorita Lo-
lita would tell her parents, and that the despensero
would give testimony, but he doubted whether Don
Carlos would do anything about it. Don Carlos
would think twice before affronting an officer of the
army, being the recipient already of the governor's
froTiTis. Ramon only hoped that Don Diego would
not learn much of the happening, for if a Vega
raised hand against him, the captain would have
difficulty maintaining his position.

Pacing the floor of his office, Captain Ramon al-
lowed his wrath to grow, and thought on these things
and many others. He had kept abreast of the times,
and he knew that the governor and the men about
Mm were sorely in need of more funds to waste in
riotous living. They had plucked those men of
wealth against whom there was the faintest breath
of suspicion, and they would welcome a new victim.

Might not the captain suggest one, and at the same
time strengthen his own position with the governor ?
Would the captain dare hint that perhaps the Vega
family was wavering in its loyalty to the governor ?

At least he could do one thing, he decided. He
could have his revenge for the flouting the daughter
of Don Carlos Pulido had given him.

Captain Ramon griimed despite his wrath as
the thought came to him. He called for writing
materials, and informed one of his well men that

CAPTAIN EAMON WEITES A LETTER 111

lie should prepare for a journey, being about to be
named for a courier's job.

E-amon paced the floor for some minutes more,
thinking on the matter and trying to decide just
how to word the epistle he intended writing. And
finally he sat down before the long table, and ad-
dressed his message to his excellency the governor,
at his mansion in San Francisco de Asis.

This is what he wrote:

Your intelhgences regarding this highwayman, Sehor
Zorro, as he is known, have come to hand. I regret that
I am unable at this writing to report the rogue's capture,
but I trust that you will be lenient with me in the matter,
since circumstances are somewhat unusual.

I have the greater part of my force in pursuit of the
fellow, with orders to get him in person or to fetch me
his corpse. But this Seiior Zorro does not fight alone. He
is being given succor at certain places in the neighborhood,
allowed to remain ui hiding when necessary, given food
and drink, and, no doubt, fresh horses.

"Withhi the past day he ^dsited the hacienda of Don
Carlos PuHdo, a cahallero known to be hostile to your ex-
cellency. I sent men there, and went myself. While my
soldiers took up his trail the man came from a closet in
the living-room at Don Carlos 's house and attacked me
treacherously. He wounded me in the right shoulder, but
I fought him off until he became frightened and dashed
away, making his escape. I may mention that I was
hindered somewhat by this Don Carlos in pursuing the
man. Also, when I arrived at the Tmcienda, indications
were that the man had been eating his evening meal there.

The Pulido hacienda is an excellent place for such a man

112 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

to hide, being somewhat off the main highway. I fear
that Seiior Zorro makes it his headquarters when he is in
this vicinity; and I await your instructions in the matter.
I may add that Don Carlos scarcely treated me with re-
spect while I was in his presence, and that his daughter,
the Seiiorita Lolita, scarcely could keep from showing her
admiration of this highwayman and from sneering at the
efforts of the soldiery to capture him.

There are also indications of a famous and wealthy fam-
ily of this neighborhood wavering in loyalty to your ex-
cellency, but you will appreciate the fact that I cannot
write of such a thing in a missive sent you by courier.

With deep respect,

Ra:hox, Comandante and Captain, Presidio,

Reina de Los Angeles.

Eamon grinned again as he finished the letter.
That last paragraph, he knew, ^ould get the gov-
ernor guessing. The Vega family was about the
only famous and wealthy one that would fit the de-
scription. As for the Pnlidos, Captain Ramon im-
agined what would happen to them. The governor
would not hesitate to deal out punishment, and per-
haps the Senorita Lolita would find herself without
protection, and in no position to reject the advances
of a captain of the army.

Now Ramon addressed himself to the task of
making a second copy of the letter, intending to
send one by his courier and preserve the other for
his files, in case something came up and he wished
to refer to it.

Having finished the copy, he folded the original

CAPTAIN EAMOX WEITES A LETTER 113

and sealed it, carried it to the soldiers' lounging-
room, and gave it to the man he had selected as
courier. The soldier saluted, hurried out to his
horse, and rode furiously toward the north, toward
San Fernando and Santa Barbara, and on to San
Francisco de Asis, with the orders ringing in his
ears that he should make all haste and get a change
of horses at every mission and pueblo in the name
of his excellency.

Ramon returned to his office and poured out a
measure of wine, and began reading over the copy
of the letter. He half wished that he had made it
stroncrer, vet he knew that it were better to make
it mild, for then the governor would not think he
was exaggerating.

He stopped reading now and then to curse the
name of Senor Zorro, and frequently he reflected
on the beauty and grace of the Senorita Lolita, and
told himself she should be punished for the manner
in which she had treated him.

He supposed that Senor Zorro was miles away by
this time, and putting more miles between himself
and Reina de Los Angeles ; but he was mistaken in
that. For the Curse of Capistrano, as the soldiers
called him, had not hurried away after leaving the
house of Don Diego Vega.

CHAPTER XV

AT THE PKESIDIO

Sexob Zoreo had gone a short distance througli
the darkness to where he had left his horse in the
rear of a native's hut, and there he had stood,
thinking of the love that had come to him.

Presently he chuckled as if well pleased, then
mounted and rode slowly toward the path that led
to the presidio. He heard a horseman galloping
away from the place, and thought Captain Ramon
had sent a man to call back Sergeant Gonzales and
the troopers and put them on the fresher trail.

Senor Zorro knew how affairs stood at the pre-
sidio, knew to a man how many of the soldiery were
there, and that four were ill with a fever, and that
there was but one well man now besides the captain
since one had ridden away.

He laughed again, and made his horse climb the
slope slowly so as to make little noise. In the rear
of the presidio building he dismounted and allowed
the reins to drag on the ground, knowing that the
animal would not move from the spot.

Now he crept through the darkness to the wall
of the building, and made his way around it care-
fully until he came to a window. He raised himself
on a pile of adobe bricks and peered inside.

It was Captain Ramon's office into ^^^ch he

114

AT THE PRESIDIO 115

looked. He saw the comandante sitting before a
table reading a letter which, it appeared, he had
just finished writing. Captain Ramon was talking
to himself, as does many an evil man.

**That will cause consternation for the pretty
senorita/^ he was saying. ^^That wiU teach her
not to flaunt an officer of his excellency's forces!
When her father is in the car eel charged with high
treason, and his estates have been taken away, then
perhaps she vrill listen to what I have to say!"

Senor Zorro had no difficulty in distinguishing the
words. He guessed instantly that Captain Ramon
had planned a revenge, that he contemplated mis-
chief toward the PuHdos. Beneath his mask the
face of Senor Zorro grew black with rage.

He got down from the pile of adobe bricks and
slipped on along the wall until he came to the corner
of the building. In a socket at the side of the front
door a torch was burning, and the only able-bodied
man left in the garrison was pacing back and forth
before the doorway, a pistol in his belt and a blade
at his side.

Senor Zorro noted the length of the man's pacing.
He judged the distance accurately, and just as the
man turned his back to resume his march the high-
wayman sprang.

His hands closed around the soldier's throat as
his knees struck the man in the back. Instantly
they were upon the ground, the surprised trooper
now doing his best to put up a fight. But Senor
Zorro, knowing that a bit of noise might mean dis-

116 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

aster for him, silenced the man by striking him on
the temple with the heavy butt of his pistol.

He pnlled the unconscious soldier back into the
shadows, gagged him with a strip torn from the end
of his serape, and bound his hands and feet with
other strips. Then he drew his cloak about him,
looked to his pistol, listened a moment, to be sure
the short fight with the soldier had not attracted
the attention of any inside the building, and slipped
once more toward the door.

He was inside in an instant. Before him was the
big lounging-room with its hard dirt floor. Here
were some long tables and bunks and wine mugs
and harness and saddles and bridles. Senor Zorro
gave it but a glance to assure himself that no man
was there, and walked swiftly and almost silently
across to the door that opened into the office of the
comandante.

He made sure that his pistol was ready for instant
use, and then threw the door open boldly. Captain
Ramon was seated with his back toward it, and now
he whirled around in his chair with a snarl on his
lips, thinking one of his men had entered without
the preliminary of knocking, and ready to rebuke
the man.

**Not a sound, senor!'* the highwayman warned.
**You die if as much as a gasp escapes your lips!''

He kept his eyes on those of the comandante ,
closed the door behind him, and advanced into the
room. He walked forward slowly, without speaking,
the pistol held ready in front of him. Captain

AT THE PRESIDIO 117

Eamon had his hands on the table before him, and
his face had gone white.

**This visit is necessary, senor, I believe,'' Senor
Zorro said. ^'I have not made it because I admire
the beauty of your face.''

*^What do you here?" the captain asked, disre-
garding the order to make no sound, yet speaking
in a tone scarcely above a whisper.

**I happened to look in at the window, senor. I
saw an epistle before you on the table, and I heard
you speak. 'Tis a bad thing for a man to talk to
himself! Had you remained silent I might have
gone on about my business. As it is — "

*^Well, senorf'^ the captain asked, with a bit of
his old arrogance returning to him.

**I have a mind to read that letter before you."

'^Does my military business interest you that
much?"

**As to that, we shall say nothing, senor. Kindly
remove your hands from the table, but do not reach
toward the pistol at your side unless you wish to
die the death instantly. It would not grieve me
to have to send your soul into the hereafter."

The comandante did as he had been directed, and
Senor Zorro went forward cautiously and snatched
up the letter. Then he retreated a few paces again,
still watching the man before him.

**I am going to read this," he said, **but I warn
you that I shall watch you closely, also. Do not
make a move, senor, unless it is your wish to visit
your ancestors."

118 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

He read swiftly, and when he had finished he
looked the comandante straight in the eyes for some
time without speaking, and his own eyes were glit-
tering malevolently through his mask. Captain
Eamon began to feel more uncomfortable.

Senor Zorro stepped across to the table, still
watching the other, and held the letter to the flame
of a candle. It caught fire, blazed, presently dropped
to the floor a bit of ash. Senor Zorro put one foot
upon it.

* * The letter will not be delivered, ' ' he said. * ^ So,
you fight women, do you, senor? A brave officer and
an ornament to his excellency's forces ! I doubt not
he would grant you promotion if he knew of this.
You insult a senorita because her father, for the
time being, is not friendly with those in power, and
because she repulses you as you deserve, you set
about to cause trouble for the members of her fam-
ily. Truly, it is a worthy deed!''

He took a step closer and bent forward, still hold-
ing the pistol ready before him.

**Let me not hear of you sending any letter simi-
lar to the one I have just destroyed," he said. *^I
regret at the present time that you are unable to
stand before me and cross blades. It would be an
insult to my sword to run you through, yet would
I do it to rid the world of such a fellow !"

^*You speak bold words to a wounded man!"

**No doubt the wound will heal, senor. And I
shall keep myself informed regarding it. And when
it has healed and you have back your strength, I

AT THE PRESIDIO 119

shall take the trouble to hunt you up, and call you
to account for what you have attempted doing this
night. Let that be understood between us!"

Again their eyes blazed, each man's into those of
the other, and Seiior Zorro stepped backward and
drew his cloak closer about him. To their ears there
came, suddenly, a jangling of harness, the tramp of
horses' feet, the raucous voice of Sergeant Pedro
Gonzales.

*'Do not dismount!" the sergeant was crying to
his men at the door. ^*I but make report, and then
we go on after the rogue! There shall be no rest
until we take him!"

Senor Zorro glanced quickly around the room,
for he knew escape by the entrance was cut off now.
Captain Eamon's eyes flashed with keen anticipa-
tion.

**Ho, Gonzales!" he shrieked before Zorro could
warn him against it. *'To the rescue, Gonzales!
Sehor Zorro is here!"

And then he looked at the highwayman defiantly,
as if telling him to do his worst.

But Senor Zorro had no desire to fire his pistol
and let out the captain's life-blood, it appeared,
preferring to save him for the blade when his shoul-
der should have healed.

*^ Remain where you are!" he commanded, and
darted toward the nearest window.

The big sergeant had heard, however. He called
upon his men to follow, and rushed across the large
room to the door of the office and threw it open.

120 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

A bellow of rage escaped him as he saw the masked
man standing beside the table, and saw the com-
andante sitting before it with his hands spread out
before him.

*'By the saint, we have him!^' Gonzales cried.
**In with yon, troopers! Guard the doors! Some
look to the windows ! ' '

Senor Zorro had transferred his pistol to his left
hand, and had whipped out his blade. Now he
swept it forward and sidewise, and the candles were
struck from the table. Zorro put his foot upon the
only one that remained lighted, and extinguished
it in that manner — and the room was in darkness.

** Lights! Bring a torch!'* Gonzales shrieked.

Senor Zorro sprang aside, against the wall, and
made his way around it rapidly while Gonzales and
two other men sprang into the room, and one re-
mained guarding the door ; while in the other room
several ran to get a torch, and managed to get in
one another's way.

The man with the torch came rushing through the
door finally, and he shrieked and went down with;
a sword-blade through his breast, and the torch fell
to the floor and was extinguished. And then, before
the sergeant could reach the spot, Senor Zorro was
back in the darkness again and could not be found.

Gonzales was roaring his curses now and search-
ing for the man he wished to slay, and the captain
was crying to him to be careful and not put his blade
through a trooper by mistake. The other men were

AT THE PEESIDIO 121

storming around ; in the other room one came with
a second torch.

Zorro's pistol spoke, and the torch was shot from
the man's hand. The highwayman sprang forward
and stamped npon it, putting it out, and again re-
treated to the darkness, changing his position rap-
idly, listening for the deep breathing that would
tell him the exact location of his various foes.

^* Catch the rogue!" the comandante was shriek-
ing. *'Can one man thus make fools of the lot of
your'

Then he ceased to speak, for Senor Zorro had
grasped him from behind and shut off his wind, and
now the highwayman's voice rang out above the
din.

** Soldiers, I have your captain! I am going to
carry him before me and back out the door. I am
going to cross the other room and so reach the out-
side of the building. I have discharged one pistol,
but I am holding its mate at the base of the cap-
tain's brain. And when one of you attacks me, I
fire, and you are without a captain ! ' '

The captain could feel cold steel at the back of
his head, and he shrieked for the men to use caution.
And Senor Zorro carried him to the doorway and
backed out with the captain held in front of him,
while Gonzales and the troopers followed as closely
as they dared, watching every move, hoping for a
chance to catch him unaware.

He crossed the big lounging-room of the presidio.

122 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

and so came to the outside door. He was somewhat
afraid of the men outside, for he knew that some
of them had run around the building to guard the
windows. The torch was still burning just outside
the door, and Seiior Zorro put up his hand and tore
it down and extinguished it. But still there would
be grave danger the moment he stepped out.

Gonzales and the troopers were before him, spread
out fan-fashion across the room, bending forward,
waiting for a chance to get in a blow. Gonzales held
a pistol in his hand — though he made out to despise
the weapon — and was watching for an opportunity
to shoot without endangering the life of his captain.

''Back, senores!" the highwayman commanded
now. '^I would have more room in which to make
my start. That is it — I thank you ! Sergeant Gon-
zales, were not the odds so heavy, I might be tempted
to play at fence with you and disarm you again. ' '

*'By the saints — "

**Some other time, my sergeant! And now,
senoreSj attention! It desolates me to say it, but
I had only the one pistol. What the captain has
been feeling all this time at the base of his brain is
naught except a bridle buckle I picked up from the
floor. Is it not a pretty jest? Senores, a DiosT'

Suddenly he whirled the captain forward, darted
into the darkness, and started toward his horse with
the whole pack at his heels and pistol flashes split-
ting the blackness of the night and bullets whistling
by his head. His laughter came back to them on the
stiffening breeze that blew; in from the distant sea.

CHAPTER XVI

THE CHASE THAT FAHjED

Senor Zoero urged Ms horse down the treacher-
ous slope of the hill, where there was loose gravel
and a misstep would spell disaster, and where the
troopers were slow to follow. Sergeant Gronzales
possessed courage enough, and some of the men fol-
lowed him, while others galloped off to right and
left, planning to intercept the fugitive when he
reached the bottom and turned.

Senor Zorro, however, was before them, and took
the trail toward San Gabriel at a furious gallop,
while the troopers dashed along behind, calling to
one another, and now and then discharging a pistol
with a great waste of powder and ball and no result
so far as capturing or wounding the highwayman
was concerned.

Soon the moon came up. Senor Zorro had been
anticipating that, and knew that it would make his
escape more difficult. But his horse was fresh and
strong, while those ridden by the troopers had cov-
ered many miles during the day, and so hope was
not gone.

Now he could be seen plainly by those who pur-
sued, and he could hear Sergeant Gonzales crying
upon his men to urge their beasts to the utmost and
effect a capture. He glanced behind him as he rode,

123

124 THE MAEK OF ZOERO

aiid observed that the troopers were scattering out
in a long line, the stronger and fresher horses gain-
ing on the others.

So they rode for some five miles, the troopers
holding the distance, but not making any gain, and
Seiior Zorro knew that soon their horses would
weaken, and that the good steed he bestrode, which
gave no signs of fatig-ue as yet, would outdistance
them. Only one thing bothered him — ^he wanted to
be traveling in the opposite direction.

Here the hills rose abruptly on either side of the
highway, and it was not possible for him to turn
aside and make a great circle, nor were there any
trails he could follow; and if he attempted to have
his horse climb, he would have to make slow prog-
ress, and the troopers would come near enough to
fire their pistols, and mayhap wound him.

So he rode straight ahead, gaining a bit now,
knowing that two miles further up the valley there
was a trail that swung off to the right, and that by
following it he would come to higher gTOund and
so could double back on his tracks.

He had covered one of the two miles before he
remembered that it had been noised abroad that a
landslide had been caused by the recent torrential
rain and had blocked this higher trail. So he could
not use that even when he reached it; and now a
bold thought came to his mind.

As he topped a slight rise in the terrain, he
glanced behind once more and saw that no two of
the troopers were riding side by side. They were

THE CHASE THAT FAILED 125

well scattered, and there was some distance between
each two of them. It would help his plan.

He dashed around a bend in the highway, and
pulled up his horse. He turned the animal's head
back toward whence he had come, and bent forward
in the saddle to listen. "When he could hear the
hoof-beats of his nearest pursuer's horse, he drew
his blade, took a turn of the reins around his left
wrist, and suddenly struck his beast in the flanks
cruelly with his sharp rowels.

The animal he rode was not used to such treat-
ment, never having felt the spurs except when in
a gallop and his master wished gTeater speed. Now
he sprang forward like a thunderbolt, dashed around
the curve like a wild stallion, and bore down upon
the nearest of Senor Zorro's foes.

**Make way!" Seiior Zorro cried.

The first man gave ground readily, not sure that
this was the highwayman coming back, and when
he was sure of it he shrieked the intelligence to those
behind, but they could not understand because of
the clatter of hoofs on the hard road.

Seiior Zorro bore down upon the second man,
clashed swords with him and rode on. He dashed
around another curve, and his horse struck another
fairly, and hurled him from the roadway. Zorro
swung at the fourth man, and missed him, and was
glad that the fellow's counterstroke missed as well.

And now there was naught but the straight ribbon
of road before him, and his galloping foes dotting
it. Like a maniac he rode them through, cutting

126 THE MAEK OF ZORRO

and slashing at them as he passed. Sergeant Gon-
zales, far in the rear because of his jaded mount,
realized what was taking place and screeched at his
men, and even as he screeched a thunderbolt seemed
to strike his horse, unseating him.

And then Senor Zorro was through them and gone,
and they were following him again, a cursing' ser-
geant at their head, but at a distance slightly greater
than before.

He allowed his horse to go somewhat slower now,
since he could keep his distance, and rode to the first
cross-trail, into which he turned. He took to higher
ground, and looked back to see the pursuit stream-
ing out over the hill, losing itself in the distance,
but still determined.

**It was an excellent trick !'* Seiior Zorro said to
his horse. ^'But we cannot try it often!''

He passed the hacienda of a man friendly to the
governor, and a thought came to him — Gonzales
might stop there and obtain fresh horses for him-
self and his men.

Nor was he mistaken in that. The troopers
dashed up the driveway, and dogs howled a wel-
come. The master of the hacienda came to the
door, holding a candelero high above his head.

*^We chase Senor Zorro!" Gonzales cried. ^^We
require fresh steeds, in the name of the governor!"

The servants were called, and Gonzales and his
men hurried to the corral. Magnificent horses were
there, horses almost as good as the one the high-
wayman rode, and all were fresh. The troopers

THE CHASE THAT FAILED 127

quickly stripped saddles and bridles from their jaded
mounts and put them on the fresh steeds, and then
dashed for the trail again and took up the pursuit.
Senor Zorro had gained quite a lead, but there was
only one trail he could follow, and they might over-
take him.

Three miles away, on the crest of a small hill,
there was a hacienda that had been presented to the
mission of San Gabriel by a cahallero who had died
without leaving heirs. The governor had threatened
to take it for the state, but so far had not done so,
the Franciscans of San Gabriel having a name for
protecting their property with determination.

In charge of this hacienda was one Fray Felipe,
a member of the order who was along in years, and
under his direction the neophytes made the estate
a profitable one, raising much live stock, and send-
ing to the storehouses great amounts of hides and
tallow and honey and fruit, as well as wine.

Gonzales knew the trail they were following led
to this hacienda^ and that just beyond it there was
another trail that split, one part going to San
Gabriel and the other returning to Eeina de Los
Angeles by a longer route.

If Senor Zorro passed the hacienda, it stood to
reason that he would take the trail that ran toward
the pueblo, since, had he wished to go to San
Gabriel, he would have continued along the highway
in the first place, instead of turning and riding back
through the troopers at some risk to himself.

But he doubted whether Zorro would pass.. For

128 THE MAEK OF ZOERO

it was well known that the highwajTuan dealt harshly
with those who prosecuted the frailes^ and it was
to be believed that every Franciscan held a friendly
f eehng for him and wonld give him aid.

The troopers came within sight of the hacienda,
and could see no light. Gonzales stopped them
where the driveway started, and listened in vain for
sounds of the man they pursued. He dismounted
and inspected the dusty road, but could not tell
whether a horseman had ridden toward the house
recently.

He issued quick orders, and the troop separated,
half of the men remaining with their sergeant and
the others scattering in such mamier that they could
surround the house, search the huts of the natives,
and look at the great bams.

Then Sergeant Gonzales rode straight up the
driveway with half his men at his back, forced his
horse up the steps to the veranda as a sign that he
held this place in little respect, and knocked on the
door with the hilt of his sword.

CHAPTER XVn

SEEGEANT GOXZALES MEETS A FEIEXD

Peesextly light showed through the windows, and
after a time the door was thrown open. Fray Felipe
stood framed in it, shading a candle with his hand
— a giant of a man now past sixty, but one who had
been a power in his time.

^^What is all this noise f he demanded in his
deep voice. "And why do yon, son of evil, ride
yoTir horse on my veranda f

**We are chasing this pretty Seiior Zorro, fray —
this man they call the Cnrse of Capistrano,'* Gon-
zales said.

**And yon expect to find him in this poor honse?"

'* Stranger things have happened. Answer me,
fray! Have you heard a horseman gallop past
within a short timeT'

"I have not!"

**And has this Senor Zorro paid you a visit re-
cently!"

"I do not know the man you mean."

**You have heard of him, doubtless?"

'*I have heard that he seeks to aid the oppressed,
that he has punished those who have committed sac-
rilege, and that he has whipped those brutes who
have beaten Indians."

129

130 THE MAEK OF ZOERO

^^You are bold in your words, fray!"

^^It is my nature to speak the truth, soldier!''

^^You mil be getting yourself into difficulties with
the powers, my robed Franciscan."

^'I fear no politician, soldier!"

**I do not like the tone of your words, fray, I
have half a mind to dismount and give you a taste
of my whip!"

" Senor!" Fray Felipe cried. **Take ten years
off my shoulders and I can drag you in the dirt ! ' '

*'That is a question for dispute! However, let
us get to the subject of this visit. You have no^
seen a masked fiend who goes by the name of Senor
Zorro?"

^ ' I have not, soldier ! ' '

*^I shall have my men search your house!"

**You accuse me of falsehood!" Fray Felipe cried.

''My men must do something to pass the time,
and they may as well search the house. You have
nothing you wish to hide?"

''Recognizing the identity of my guests, it might
be well to hide the wine-jugs," Fray Felipe said.

Sergeant Gonzales allowed an oath to escape him,
and got down from his horse. The others dis-
mounted, too, and the sergeant's mount was taken
off the veranda and left with the horse-holder.

Then Gonzales drew off his gloves, sheathed his
sword, and stamped through the door with the
others at his heels, as Fray Felipe fell back before
him, protesting against the intrusion.

From a couch in a far corner of the room there

GONZALES MEETS A FRIEND 131

arose a man, who stepped into the circle of light cast
by the candelero,

*'As I have eyes, it is my raucous friend!'' he
cried.

*^Don Diego! You here!" Gonzales gasped.

*'I have been at my hacienda looking over business
affairs, and I rode over to spend the night with
Fray Felipe, who has known me from babyhood.
These turbulent times ; I thought that here, at least,
in this hacienda that is a bit out of the way and has
a fray in charge of it, I could for a time rest in peace
without hearing of violence and bloodshed. But it
appears that I cannot. Is there no place in this
country where a man may meditate and consult mu-
sicians and the poets!"

**Meal mush and goat's milk!" Gonzales cried.
'^Don Diego, you are my good friend and a true
caballero. Tell me — have you seen this Senor Zorro
to-night?"

*'I have not, my sergeant."

**You did not hear him ride past the hacienda?"

**I did not. But a man could ride past and not
be heard here in the house. Fray Felipe and I have
been talking together, and were just about to retire
when you came."

^^Then the rogue has ridden on and taken the trail
toward the pueblo!" the sergeant declared.

**You had him in view?" Don Diego asked.

**Ha! We were upon his heels, cahallero! But
at a turn in the highroad he made connection with
some twenty men of his band. They rode at us,

132 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

and attempted to scatter us, but Tre drove them aside
and kept on after Seiior Zorro. We managed to
separate him from his fellows and give chase.''

^'You say he has a score of men?"

'^ Fully a score, as my men vrill testify. He is a
thorn in the flesh of the soldieiy, but I have sworn
to get him ! And when once we stand face to face — "

*^You will tell me of it afterward?" Don Diego
asked, rubbing his hands together. "You will relate
how you mocked him as he fought, how you played
with him, pressed him back and ran him through — "

"By the saints! You make mock of me, cahal'
lero9''

" 'Tis but a jest, my sergeant. Now that we
understand each other, perhaps Fray Felipe will
give wine to you and your men. After such a chase,
you must be fatigued."

"Wine would taste good," the sergeant said.

His corporal came in then, to rejDort that the huts
and barns had been searched, and the corral also,
and that no trace had been found of Senor Zorro
or his horse.

Fray Felipe served the wine, though he appeared
to do it with some reluctance, and it was plain that
he was but answering Don Diego's request.

"And what shall you do now, my sergeant?" Don
Diego asked, after the wine had been brought to the
table. "Are you always to go chasing around the
country and creating a tumult?"

"The rogTie evidently has turned back toward
Keina de Los Angeles, caballero/' the sergeant re-

GONZALES MEETS A FRIEND 133

plied. *^He thinks he is clever, no donbt, but I can
understand his plan."

*^Ha! And what is it?"

**He will ride aronnd Reina de Los Angeles and
take the trail to San Luis Rey. He will rest for
a time, no doubt, to throw off all pursuit, and then
will continue to the vicinity of San Juan Capistrano.
That is where he began this wild life of his, and
for that reason the Curse of Capistrano he is called.
Yes, he will go to Capistrano."

*^And the soldiers!" Don Diego asked.

'*We shall follow him leisurely. We shall work
toward the place, and when the news of his next
outrage is made known, we shall be T\^tliin a short
distance of him instead of in the presidio at the
puehlo. We can find the fresh trail, and so take up
the chase. There shall be no rest for us until the
rogue is either slain or taken prisoner."

*^And you have the reward," Don Diego added.

*'You speak true words, cahallero. The reward
will come in handy. But I seek revenge also. The
rogue disarmed me once."

*^Ah! That was the time he held a pistol in your
face and forced you to fight not too well?"

^^That was the time, my good friend. Oh, I have
a score to settle with him!"

** These turbulent times!" Don Diego sighed. ^^I
would they were at an end! A man has no chance
for meditation. There are moments when I think
I shall ride far out in the hills, where there can be
found no life except rattlesnakes and coyotes, and

134 THE MAEK OF ZOERO

there spend a number of days. Only in that manner
may a man meditate. ''

^^Why meditate r' Gonzales cried. **Why not
cease thought and take to action? What a man
you would make, cahallero, if you let your eye flash
now and then, and quarreled a bit, and showed your
teeth once in a while! What you need is a few
bitter enemies."

^^May the saints preserve us!" Don Diego cried.

'*It is the truth, cahallero! Fight a bit — make
love to some senorita — get drunk ! Wake up and be
a man!"

"Upon my soul! You almost persuade me, my
sergeant. But — ^no! I never could endure the ex-
ertion ! ' '

Gonzales gTOwled something into his great mus-
tache, and got up from the table.

**I have no special liking for you, fray, but I
thank you for the wine, which was excellent," he
said. "We must continue our journey. A soldier's
duty never is at an end while he lives."

"Do not speak of journeys!" Don Diego cried.
"I must take one myself on the morrow. My busi-
ness at the hacienda is done, and I go back to the
pueblo/'

"Let me express the hope, my good friend, that
you survive the hardship," Sergeant Gonzales said.

CHAPTER XVin

DON" DIEGO KETUENS

Se^orita Lolita had to tell lier parents, of course,
what had happened during their absence, for the
despensero knew, and would tell Don Diego when
he returned, and the senorita was wise enough to
realize that it would be better to make the first
explanation.

The despensero, having been sent for wine, knew
nothing of the love scene that had been enacted, and
had been told merely that Seiior Zorro had hurried
away. That seemed reasonable, since the senor was
pursued by the soldiers.

So the girl told her father and mother that Cap-
tain Ramon had called while they were absent, and
that he had forced his way into the big living-room
to speak to her, despite the entreaties of the servant.
Perhaps he had been drinking too much wine, else
was not himself because of his wound, the girl ex-
plained, but he grew too bold, and pressed his suit
with ardor that was repugnant, and finally insisted
that he should have a kiss.

Whereupon, said the senorita, this Senor Zorro
had stepped from the corner of the room — and how
he came to be there, she did not know — and had
forced Captain Ramon to apologize, and then had
thrown him out of the house. After which — and

135

136 THE MAEK OF ZORRO

here she neglected to tell the entire truth — Senor
Zorro made a courteous bow and hurried away.

Don Carlos was for getting a blade and going at
once to the presidio and challenging Captain Ramon
to mortal combat ; but Doiia Catalina was more calm,
and showed him that to do that would be to let
the world know that their daughter had been af-
fronted, and also it would not aid their fortunes
any if Don Carlos quarreled with an officer of the
army; and yet again the don was of an age, and
the captain probably would run him through in two
passes and leave Doiia Catalina a weeping widow,
which she did not wish to be.

So the don paced the floor of the great living-
room and fumed and fussed, and wished he were
ten years the younger, or that he had political power
again, and he promised that when his daughter
should have wedded Don Diego, and he was once
more in good standing, he would see that Captain
Ramon was disgraced and his uniform torn from
his shoulders!

Sitting in the chamber that had been assigned to
her, Seiiorita Lolita listened to her father's ravings,
and found herself confronted with a situation. Of
course, she could not wed Don Vega now. She had
given her lips and her love to another, a man whose
face she never had seen, a rogue pursued by soldiery
— and she had spoken truly when she had said that
a Pulido loved but once.

She tried to explain it all to herself, saying that
it was a generous impulse that had forced her to

The Douglas Fairbanks Picture. The Mark of Zorro.

A SCENE FROM THE PHOTOPLAY.

DON DIEGO RETIJEXS 137

give her lips to the man ; and she told herself that
it was not the truth, that her heart had been stirred
when first he spoke to her at her father's hacienda
during the siesta hour.

She was not prepared yet to tell her parents of
the love that had come into her life, for it was sweet
to keep it a secret ; and, moreover, she dreaded the
shock to them, and half feared that her father might
cause her to be sent away to some place where she
never would see Senor Zorro again.

She crossed to a window and gazed out at the
plaza — and she saw Don Diego approaching in the
distance. He rode slowly, as if greatly fatigued, and
his two native servants rode a short distance behind
him.

Men called to him as he neared the house, and he
waved his hand at them languidly in response to
their greeting. He dismounted slowly, one of the
natives holding the stirrup and assisting him,
brushed the dust from his clothes, and started to-
ward the door.

Don Carlos and his wife were upon their feet to
greet him, their faces beaming, for they had been
accepted anew into society the evening before, and
knew it was because they were Don Diego's house
guests.

*^I regret that I was not here when you arrived,"
Don Diego said, "but I trust that you have been
made comfortable in my poor house."

*'More than comfortable in this gorgeous palace!"
Don Carlos exclaimed.

138 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

^^Then you have been fortunate, for the saints
know I have been uncomfortable enough.''

^'How is that, Don Diego?" Dona Catalina asked.

^'My work at the hacienda done, I rode as far as
the place of Fray Felipe, there to spend the night
in quiet. But as we were about to retire, there came
a thundering noise at the door, and this Sergeant
Gonzales and a troop of soldiers entered. It ap-
pears that they had been chasing the highwayman
called Seiior Zorro, and had lost him in the dark-
ness!''

In the other room, a dainty senorita gave thanks
for that.

^' These are turbulent times," Don Diego con-
tinued, sighing and mopping the perspiration from
his "forehead. **The noisy fellows were with us an
hour or more, and then continued the chase. And
because of what they had said of violence, I endured
a horrible nightmare, so got very little rest. And
this morning I was forced to continue to Reina de
Los Angeles!"

'*You have a difficult time," Don Carlos said.
** Seiior Zorro was here, cahallero, in your house,
before the soldiers chased him."

*'What is this intelligence?" Don Diego cried, sit-
ting up straight in his chair and betraying sudden
interest.

* ^ Undoubtedly he came to steal, else to abduct you
and hold you for ransom," Dona Catalina observed.
**But I scarcely think that he stole. Don Carlos
and myself were visiting friends, and Senorita Lo-

DON DIEGO EETUENS 139

lita remained here alone. There — there is a dis-
tressing affair to report to you — ''

^*I beg of you to proceed/' Don Diego said.

*' While Ave were gone, Captain Ramon, of the
presidio, called. He was informed we were absent,
but he forced his way into the house and made him-
self obnoxious to the senorita. This Senor Zorro
came in and forced the captain to apologize, and
then drove him away."

'^Well, that is what I call a pretty bandit!'' Don
Diego exclaimed. *^The senorita supers from the
experience ! ' '

"Indeed, no!" said Dona Catalina. "She was of
the opinion that Captain Ramon had taken too much
wine. I shall call her."

Dona Catalina went to the door of the chamber
and called her daughter, and Lolita came into the
room and greeted Don Diego as became a proper
maiden.

"It makes me desolate to know that you received
an insult in my house," Don Diego said. "I shall
consider the affair."

Dona Catalina made a motion to her husband, and
they went to a far corner to sit, that the young folk
might be somewhat alone, which seemed to please
Don Diego, but not the senorita.

CHAPTER XIX

CAPTAIN EAMON APOLOGIZES

*' Captain Eam6n is a beast!" the girl said, in a
voice not too loud.

^'He is a worthless fellow/' Don Diego agreed.

*^He — that is — he wished to kiss me,'' she said.

**And you did not let him, of course."

''Senorf'

**I — confound it, I did not mean that! Certainly
you did not let him! I trust that you slapped his
face. ' '

**I did," said the senorita, *^And then he strug-
gled with me, and he told me that I should not be
so particular, since I was daughter of a man who
stood in the bad graces of the governor."

*^Why, the infernal brute ! " Don Diego exclaimed.

**Is that all you have to say about it, cahallerof'^

**I cannot use oaths in your presence, of course."

*^Do you not understand, senor? This man came
into your house, and insulted the girl you have
asked to be your wife!"

*^ Confound the rascal! When next I see his ex-
cellency, I shall ask him to remove the officer to some
other post."

*^0h!" the girl cried. *'Have you no spirit at
all? Have him removed? Were you a proper man,
Don Diego, you would go to the presidio, you would

140

CAPTAIN EAM6n apologizes 141

call this Captain Eamon to account, you would pass
your sword through his body, and call upon all to
witness that a man could not insult the senorita
you admired and escape the consequences."

*'It is such an exertion to ^ghiV^ he said. **Let
us not speak of violence. Perhaps I shall see the
fellow and rebuke him.'*

^^ Rebuke him!'' the girl cried.

^^Let us talk of something else, senorita. Let us
speak of the matter regarding which I talked the
other day. My father will be after me again soon
to know when I am going to take a wife. Cannot
we get the matter settled in some manner! Have
you decided upon the day?"

^*I have not said that I would marry you," she
replied.

^^Why hold oif?" he questioned. ''Have you
looked at my house? I shall make it satisfactory
to you I am sure. You shall refurnish it to suit
your taste, though I pray you do not disturb it too
much, for I dislike to have things in a mess. You
shall have a new carriage and anything you may
desire."

*'Is this your manner of wooing?" she asked,
glancing at him from the corners of her eyes.

'^What a nuisance to woo!" he said. ^'Must I
play a guitar, and make pretty speeches? Can you
not give me your answer without all that foolish-
ness?"

She was comparing this man beside her with
Senor Zorro, and Don Diego did not compare to him

142 THE ]MAEK OF ZOREO

favorably. She wanted to be done with this farce,
to have Don Diego out of her vision, and none but
Senor Zorro in it.

''I must speak frankly to you, cahallero/^ she
said. ''I have searched my heart, and in it I find
no love for you. I am sorry, for I know what our
marriage would mean to my parents, and to myself
in a financial way. But I cannot wed you, Don
Diego, and it is useless for you to ask.''

^^ Well, by the saints ! I had thought it was about
all settled!" he said. ''Do you hear that, Don
Carlos? Your daughter says she cannot wed with
me — that it is not in her heart to do so."

^'Lolita, retire to your chamber!" Dona Catalina
exclaimed.

The girl did so, gladly. Don Carlos and his wife
hurried across the room and sat down beside Don
Diego.

' ' I fear you do not understand women, my friend, ' '
Don Carlos said. ''Xever must vou take a woman's
answer for the last. She alwavs mav change her
mind. A woman likes to keep a man dangling, likes
to make him blow cold with fear and hot with an-
ticipation. Let her have her moods, my friend. In
the end, I am sure, you shall have your way."

"It is beyond me!" Don Diego cried. '^What
shall I do now ! I told her I would give her all her
heart desired."

'•Her heart desires love, I suppose," Dona Cata-
lina said, out of the wealth of her woman's wisdom.

"But certainlv I shall love and cherish her.

CAPTAIN RA]Vi6n APOLOGIZES 143

Does not a man promise that in the ceremony?
Would a Vega break his word regarding such a
thing ? ' '

''Just a little courtship," Don Carlos urged.

"But it is such a nuisance!"

''A few soft words, a pressure of the hand now
and then, a sigh or two, a languishing look from
the eyes — "

''Nonsense!"

"It is what a maiden expects. Speak not of mar-
riage for some time. Let the idea grow on her — "

"But my august father is liable to come to the
pueblo any day and ask when I am to take a wife.
He has rather ordered me to do it."

"No doubt your father will understand," said
Don Carlos. "Tell him that her mother and myself
are on your side and that you are enjoying the
pleasure of winning the girl."

"I believe we should return to the hacienda to-
morrow," Doiia Catalina put in. "Lolita has seen
this splendid house, and she will contrast it with
ours. She will realize what it means to marry you.
And there is an ancient saying that when a man
and a maid are apart they grow fonder of each
other."

"I do not wish to have you hurry away."

"I think it would be best under the circumstances.
And do you ride out, say, in three days, cahallero,
and I doubt not you will find her more willing to
listen to your suit."

"I presume you know best," Don Diego said.

lU THE MAEK OF ZOERO

^'But you must remain at least until to-morrow.
And now I think I shall go to the presidio and see
this Captain Ramon. Possibly that will please the
senorita. She appears to think I should call him to
account. "

Don Carlos thought that such a course would
prove disastrous for a man who did not practice
with the blade and knew little of fighting, but he
refrained from saying so. A gentleman never in-
truded his own thoughts at such a time. Even if
a cahallero went to his death, it was all right so
long as he believed he was doing the jDroper thing,
and died as a cahallero should.

So Don Diego went from the house and walked
slowly up the hill toward the presidio building.
Captain Eamon observed his approach, and won-
dered at it, and snarled at the thought of coming
to combat with such a man.

But he was cold courtesy itself when Don Diego
was ushered into the comandante's office.

^^I am proud to know you have visited me here/'
lie said, bowing low before the scion of the Vegas.

Don Diego bowed in answer, and took the chair
Captain Ramon indicated. The captain marveled
that Don Diego had no blade at his side.

^'I was forced to climb your confounded hill to
speak to you on a certain matter," Don Diego said.
*'I have been informed that you visited my house
during my absence, and insulted a young lady who
is my guest."

** Indeed?" the captain said.

CAPTAIN EAM6n apologizes 145

'*Were you deep in winef

*'Tliat would excuse the offense in part, of course.
And then you were wounded, and probably in a
fever. Were you in a fever, captain T'

*^ Undoubtedly,'' Eamon said.

**A fever is an a\vful thing — I had a siege of it
once. But you should not have intruded upon \ho
senorita. Not only did you affront hor, but you
affronted me. I have asked the senorita to become
my wife. The matter — er — is not settled as yet,
but I have some rights in this case."

^^I entered your house seeking news of this Senor
Zorro,'' the captain lied.

^^You — er — found him!" Don Diego asked.

The face of the comandante flushed red.

^^The fellow was there, and he attacked me," he
replied. **I was wounded, of course, and wore no
weapon, and so he could work his will with me."

^^It is a most remarkable thing," observed Don
Diego, '^that none of you soldiers can meet this
Curse of Capistrano when you can be on equal
terms. Always he descends upon you when you are
helpless, or threatens you with a pistol while he
fights you vdth a blade, or has his score of men
about him.

**I met Sergeant Gonzales and his men at the
hacienda of Fray Felipe last night, and the big
sergeant told some harrowing tale of the highway-
man and his score of men scattering his troopers."

**We shall get him yet!" the captain promised.

146 THE MARK OF ZORRO

^'And I might call your attention to certain signifi-
cant things, cahallero. Don Carlos Pulido, as we
know, does not stand high with those in authority.
This Seiior Zorro was at the Pulido hacienda, you
will remember, and attacked me there, emerging
from a closet to do it.''

*^Ha! What mean you?"

** A^gain, on last night, he was in your house while
you were abroad and the Pulidos were your guests.
It begins to look as if Don Carlos has a hand in the
work of the Seiior Zorro. 1 am almost convinced
that Don Carlos is a traitor, and is aiding the rogue.
You had better think t^vice, or half a score of times,
before seeking a matrimonial alliance with the
daughter of such a man.''

*^By the saints, what a speech!" Don Diego ex-
claimed, as if in admiration. ^ ' You have made my
poor head ring with it ! You really believe all this 1 ' '

**I do, cahallero/'

**Well, the Pulidos are returning to their own
place to-morrow, I believe. I but asked them to be
my guests so they could be away from the scenes
of this Senor Zorro 's deeds."

^^And Senor Zorro followed them to the pueblo.
You see?"

*^Can it be possible?" Don Diego gasped. **I
must consider the matter. Oh, these turbulent
times! But they are returning to their hacienda
to-morrow! Of course, I would not have his excel-
lency think that I harbored a traitor."

He got to his feet, bowed courteously, and then

CAPTAIN EAM6n apologizes 147

stepped sloTvlv toward the door. And there he
seemed to remember something suddenly, and turned
to face the captain again.

^'Ha! I am at the point of forgetting all about
the insult!'' he exclaimed. *'What have you to say,
my captain, regarding the events of last night f

**0f course, cahallero, I apologize to you most
humbly," Captain Ramon replied.

^^I suppose that I must accept your apdugy. But,
please do not let such a thing happen again. You
frighten my desyensci-o badly, and he is an excellent
servant. ' '

Then Don Diego Vega bowed again and left the
presidioy and Captain Ramon laughed long and
loudly, until the sick men in the hospital-room feared
that their comandante must have lost his wits.

*^What a man!'' the captain exclaimed. **I have
turned him away from that Pulido senorita, I think.
And I was a fool to hint to the governor that he
could be capable of treason. I must rectify that
matter in some way. The man has not enough spirit
to be a traitor!"

CHAPTER XX

DON DIEGO SHOWS INTEEEST

The threatened rain did not come that day, nor
that iiigKi, and the following morning found the
snn shining brightly, and the sky bine, and the scent
of blossoms in the air.

Soon after the morning meal, the Pnlido car-
reta was driven to the front of the house by Don
Diego's servants, and Don Carlos and his wife and
daughter prepared to depart for their own haci-
enda.

^^It desolates me," Don Diego said at the door,
*'that there can be no match between the senorita
and myself. What shall I say to my father f

*^Do not give up hope, cahallero/^ Don Carlos
advised him. ** Perhaps when we are home again,
and Lolita contrasts our humble abode with your
magnificence here, she will change her mind. A
woman changes her mind, cahallero, as often as she
does the method of doing her hair."

^*I had thought all would be arranged before
now," Don Diego said. *'You think there is still
hope?"

**I trust so," Don Carlos said, but he doubted it,
remembering the look that had been in the senorita' s
face. However, he intended having a serious talk

148

DON DIEGO SHOWS INTEREST 149

with her once they were home, and possibly might de-
cide to insist on obedience even in this matter of
taking a mate.

So the usual courtesies were paid, and then the
lumbering carreta was driven away, and Don Diego
Vega turned back into his house with his head hang-
ing upon his breast, as it always hung when he did
himself the trouble to think.

Presently he decided that he needed ronnpaixion-
ship for the moment, and left ihe liouse to cross the
plaza and enter the tavern. The fat landlord rushed
to greet him, conducted him to a choice seat near a
window, and fetched wine without being commanded
to do so.

Don Diego sjoent the greater part of an hour look-
ing through the window at the plaza, watching men
and women come and go, observing the toiling na-
tives, and now and then glancing up the trail that
ran toward the San Gabriel road.

Down this trail, presently, he observed approach-
ing two mounted men, and between their horses
walked a third man, and Don Diego could see that
ropes ran from this man's waist to the saddles of
the horsemen.

**What, in the name of the saints, have we here!"
he exclaimed, getting up from the bench and going
closer to the window.

*^Ha!" said the landlord at his shoulder. *^That
will be the prisoner coming now."

** Prisoner?" said Don Diego, looking at him with
a question in his glance.

150 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

*^A native brought the news a short time ago,
caballero. Once more a fray is in the toils."

^'Explain, fat one!"

'*The man is to go before the magistrado imme-
diately for his trial. They say that he swindled a
dealer in hides, and now must pay the penalty. He
wished his trial at San Gabriel, but that was not
allowed, since all there are in favor of the missions
a^ci the frailes/'

'^Who is the ihcxilV^ Don Diego asked.

*'He is called Fray Felipe, caballero.''

**"What is this! Fray Felipe is an old man, and
my good friend. I spent night before the last with
him at the hacienda he manages."

**No doubt he has imposed upon you, caballero,
as upon others," the landlord said.

Don Diego showed some slight interest now. He
walked briskly from the tavern and went to the office
of the magistrado in a little adobe building on the
opposite side of the plaza. The horsemen were just
arriving with their prisoner. They were two sol-
diers who had been stationed at San Gabriel, the
frailes having been forced to give them bed and
board in the governor's name.

It was Fray Felipe. He had been forced to walk
the entire distance fastened to the saddles of his
guards, and there were indications that the horse-
men had galloped now and then to test the fray's
powers of endurance.

Fray Felipe's gown was almost in rags, and was
covered with dust and perspiration. Those who

DON DIEGO SHOWS INTEREST 151

crowded around him now gave him jeers and coarse
jests, but the fray held his head proudly and pre-
tended not to see or hear them.

The soldiers dismounted and forced him into the
magistrado's office, and the loiterers and natives
crowded forward and through the door. Don Diego
hesitated a moment, and then stepped toward the
door. * ' One side, scum ! " he cried ; and the natives
gave way before him.

He entered and pressed through the throng. The
magistrado saw him and beckoned him to a front
seat. But Don Diego did not care to sit at that
time.

*^What is this we have here?" he demanded.
**This is Fray Felipe, a godly man and my friend.''

*^He is a swindler," one of the soldiers retorted.

**If he is, then we can put our trust in no man,''
Don Diego observed.

^'All this is quite irregular, cdballero/' the magis-
trado insisted, stepping forward. ^'The charges
have been preferred, and the man is here to be
tried. ' '

Then Don Diego sat down and court was con-
vened.

The man who made the complaint was an evil-
looking fellow who explained that he was a dealer
in tallow and hides, and had a warehouse in San
Gabriel.

^*I went to the hacienda this fray manages and
purchased ten hides of him," he testified. ^^ After
giving him the coins in payment and taking them

152 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

to my storehouse, I found that the hides had not
been cured properly. In fact they were ruined. I
returned to the hacienda and told the fray as much,
demanding that he return the money, which he re-
fused to do."

^^The hides were good,'' Fray Felipe put in. '*I
told him I would return the money when he returned
the hides."

^'They were spoiled," the dealer declared. **My
assistant here will testify as much. They caused a
stench, and I had them burned immediately."

The assistant testified as much.

**Have you anything to say, frayf the magis-
trado asked.

**It will avail me nothing," Fray Felipe said. *'I
already am found guilty and sentenced! Were I a
follower of a licentious governor instead of a robed
Franciscan, the hides would have been good."

*^You speak treason?" the magistraclo cried.

**I speak truth!"

The magistrado puckered his lips and fro\\Tied.

** There has been entirely too much of this swin-
dling," he said finally. ** Because a man wears a
robe he cannot rob with impunity. In this case, I
deem it proper to make an example, that frailes will
see they cannot take advantage of their calling.

**The fray must repay the man the price of the
hides. And for the swindle he shall receive across
his bare back ten lashes. And for the words of
treason he has spoken, he shall receive five lashes
additional. It is a sentence!"

CHAPTER XXI

THE WHIPPING

The natives jeered and applauded. Don Diego's
face went white, and for an instant his eyes met
those of Fray Felipe, and in the face of the latter
he saw resignation.

The office was cleared, and the soldiers led the
fray to the place of execution in the middle of the
plaza. Don Diego observed that the magistrado
was grinning, and he realized what a farce the trial
had been.

** These turbulent times!" he said to a gentleman
of his acquaintance who stood near.

They tore Felipe's robe from his back and started
to lash him to the post. But the fray had been a
man of great strength in his day, and some of it
remained to him in his advanced years ; and it came
to him now what ignominy he was to suffer.

Suddenly he whirled the soldiers aside and
stooped to grasp the whip from the ground.

*^You have removed my robe!" he cried. *'I am
man now, not fray! One side, dogs!"

He lashed out with the whip. He cut a soldier
across the face. He struck at two natives who
sprang toward him. And then the throng was upon
him, beating him down, kicking and striking at him,
disregarding even the soldiers' orders.

153

154 THE LIAEK OF ZOREO

Don Diego Vega felt moved to action. He conld
not see his friend treated in this manner despite
his docile disposition. He rnshed into the midst of
the throng, calling npon the natives to clear the
^ay. But he felt a hand gTasp his arm, and turned
to look into the eyes of the magistrado.

*^ These are no actions for a cahallero/' the judge
said in a low tone. **The man has been sentenced
properly. When you raise hand to give him aid, you
raise hand against his excellency. Have you stopped
to think of that, Don Diego Vega?"

Apparently Don Diego had not. And he realized,
too, that he could do no good to his friend by inter-
fering now. He nodded his head to the magistrado
and turned away.

But he did not go far. The soldiers had subdued
Fray Felipe by now, and had lashed him to the
whipping-post. This was added insult, for the post
was used for none except insubordinate natives.
The lash was swung through the air, and Don
Diego saw blood spurt from Fray Felipe's bare
back.

He turned his face away then, for he could not
bear to look. But he could count the lashes by the
singing of the whip through the air, and he knew
that proud, old Fray Felipe was making not the
slightest sound of pain, and would die without do-
ing so.

He heard the natives laughing, and turned back
again to find that the whipping was at an end.

**The money must be repaid within two days, or

THE WHIPPINa 155

you shall have fifteen lashes more/' the magistrado
was saying.

Fray Felipe was untied and dropped to the
ground at the foot of the post. The crowd began to
melt away. Two frailes who had followed from San
Gabriel aided their brother to his feet, and led him
aside while the natives hooted. Don Diego Vega
returned to his house.

*^Send me Bernardo," he ordered his despensero.

The butler bit his lip to keep from grinning as
he went to do as he was bidden. Bernardo was a
deaf and dumb native servant for whom Don Diego
had a peculiar use. "Within the minute he entered
the great living-room and bowed before his master.

*^ Bernardo, you are a gem!" Don Diego said.
^'You cannot speak or hear, cannot write or read,
and have not sense enough to make your wants
known by the sign-langniage. You are the one man
in the world to whom I can speak without having
my ears talked off in reply. You do not 'Ha!' me
at every turn. ' '

Bernardo bobbed his head as if he understood.
He always bobbed his head in that fashion when
Don Diego's lips ceased to move.

*' These are turbulent times, Bernardo," Don
Diego continued. **A man can find no place where
he can meditate. Even at Fray Felipe's night be-
fore last there came a big sergeant pounding at the
door. A man with nerves is in a sorry state. And
this whipping of old Fray Felipe — Bernardo, let
lis hope that this Senor Zorro, who punishes those

156 THE MAEK OF ZOEKO

who work injustice, hears of the affair and acts
accordingly. ' '

Bernardo bobbed his head again.

*^As for myself, I am in a pretty pickle," Don
Diego went on. ^^My father has ordered that I get
me a wife, and the senorita I selected will have none
of me. I shall have my father taking me by the
ear in short order.

*^ Bernardo, it is time for me to leave this pueblo
for a few days. I shall go to the hacienda of my
father, to tell him I have got no woman to wed me
yet, and ask his indulgence. And there, on the wide
hills behind his house, may I hope to find some spot
where I may rest and consult the poets for one
entire day without highwaymen and sergeants and
unjust magistrados bothering me. And you, Ber-
nardo, shall accompany me, of course. I can talt
to you without your taking the words out of mj
mouth. ' '

Bernardo bobbed his head again. He guessed
what was to come. It was a habit of Don Diego's
to talk to him thus for a long time, and always
there was a journey afterward. Bernardo liked
that, because he worshiped Don Diego, and because
he liked to visit the hacienda of Don Diego's father,
where he always was treated mth kindness.

The despensero had been listening in the other
room and had heard what was said, and now he
gave orders for Don Diego's horse to be made
ready, and prepared a bottle of wine and water for
the master to take with him.

THE WHIPPING 157

WitMn a short time Don Diego set out, Bernardo
riding a mnle a short distance behind him. They
hurried along the highroad, and presently caught
up with a small carreta, beside which walked two
robed Franciscans, and in which was Fray Felipe,
trying to keep back moans of pain.

Don Diego dismounted beside the carreta as it
stopped. He went over to it and clasped Fray
Felipe's hands in his own.

*^My poor friend!" he said.

**It is but another instance of injustice," Fray
Felipe said. ^^For twenty years we, of the missions,
have been subjected to it, and it grows. The sainted
Junipero Serra invaded this land when other men
feared, and at San Diego de Alcala he built the first
mission of what became a chain, thus giving an em-
pire to the world. Our mistake was that we pros-
pered. We did the work, and others reap the ad-
vantages."

Don Diego nodded, and the other went on:

**They began taking our mission-lands from us^
lands we had cultivated, which had formed a wilder-
ness and which my brothers had turned into gardens
and orchards. They robbed us of worldly goods.
And not content with that they now are persecuting
us.

^*The mission-empire is doomed, cahallero. The
time is not far distant when mission roofs will fall
in and the walls crumble away. Some day people
will look at the ruins and wonder how such a thing
could come to pass.

158 THE MARK OF ZORRO

*^But we can do naught except submit. It is one
of our principles. I did forget myself for a moment
in the plaza at Reina de Los Angeles, when I took
the whip and struck a man. It is our lot to sub-
mit."

^^ Sometimes," mused Don Diego, *^I wish I were
a man of action."

''You give sympathy, my friend, which is worth
its weight in precious stones. And action expressed
in a wrong channel is worse than no action at all.
Where do you ride?"

"To the hacienda of my father, good friend. I
must crave his pardon and ask his indulgence. He
has ordered that I get me a wife, and I find it a
difficult task."

''That should be an easy task for a Vega. Any
maiden would be proud to take that name."

"I had hoped to wed with the Sehorita Lolita
Pulido, she having taken my fancy."

"A worthy maiden! Her father, too, has been
subjected to unjust oppression. Did you join your
family to his, none would dare raise hand against
him."

"All that is very well, frai/, and the absolute
truth, of course. But the senorita will have none
of me," Don Diego complained. "It appears that
I have not dash and spirit enough."

"She is hard to please, perhaps. Or possibly she
is but playing at being a coquette with the hope of
leading you on and increasing your ardor. A maid

THE AVHIPPIXG 159

loves to tantalize a man, cahallero. It is her privi-
lege."

**I showed her my house in the pueblo , and men-
tioned my great wealth, and agreed to purchase a
new carriage for her," Don Diego told him.

'^Did you show her your heart, mention your love,
and agree to be a perfect husband?"

Don Diego looked at him blankly, then batted his
eyes rapidly, and scratched at his chin, as he did
sometimes when he was puzzled over a matter.

*'What a perfectly silly idea!" he exclaimed after
a time.

^'Try it, caballero. It may have an excellent
effect."

CHAPTER XXn

SWIFT PUN-ISHMEN-T

The frailes drove the cart onward, Fray Felipe
raised his hand in blessing, and Don Diego Vega
turned aside into the other trail, the deaf-and-dumb
Bernardo following at his heels on the mule.

Back in the pueblo, the dealer in hides and tallow
was the center of attraction at the tavern. The fat
landlord was kept busy supplying his guests with
wine, for the dealer in hides and tallow was spend-
ing a part of the money of which he had swindled
Fray Felipe. The magistrado was spending the
rest.

There was boisterous laughter as one recounted
how Fray Felipe lay about him with the whip, and
how the blood spurted from his old back when the
lash was applied.

*^Not a whimper from him!'' cried the dealer in
hides and tallow. **He is a courageous old coyote!
Now, last month we whipped one at San Fernando,
and he howled for mercy, but some men said he had
been ill and was weak, and possibly that was so.
A tough lot, these frailes! But it is great sport
when we can make one howl ! More wine, landlord !
Fray Felipe is paying for it!"

There was a deal of raucous laughter at that, and
ihe dealer's assistant, who had given perjured tes-

160

SWIFT PUNISmiENT 161

timony, was tossed a coin and told to play a man
and do his own buying\ Whereupon the apprentice
purchased wine for all in the inn, and howled mer-
rily when the fat landlord gave him no change from
his piece of money.

**Are you a fray, that yon pinch coins T' the
landlord asked.

Those in the tavern howled with merriment again,
and the landlord, who had cheated the assistant to
the limit, grinned as he went about his business.
It was a great day for the fat landlord.

**Who was the caballero who showed some mercy
toward the frayf the dealer asked.

*'That was Don Diego Vega,'' the landlord re-
plied.

^^He will be getting himself into trouble — "

**Not Don Diego,'* said the landlord. '^ You know
the great Vega family, do you not, senor? His ex-
cellency himself curries their favor. Did the Vegas
hold up as much as a little finger, there would be
a political upheaval in these parts.''

''Then he is a dangerous man?" the dealer asked.

A torrent of laughter answered him.

''Dangerous? Don Diego Vega?" the landlord
cried, while tears ran down his fat cheeks. ''You
will be the death of me ! Don Diego does naught but
sit in the sun and dream. He scarcely ever wears
a blade, except as a matter of show. He groans if
he has to ride a few miles on a horse. Don Diego
is about as dangerous as a lizard basking in the sun.

"But he is an excellent gentleman, for all that!"

162 THE MARK OF ZOERO

the landlord added hastily, afraid that his words
would reach Don Diego's ears, and Don Diego would
take his custom elsewhere.

It was almost dusk when the dealer in hides and
tallow left the tavern with his assistant, and both
reeled as they walked, for they had partaken of too
much wine.

They made their way to the carreta in which they
traveled, waved their farewells to the group about
the door of the tavern, and started slowly up the
trail toward San Gabriel.

They made their journey in a leisurely manner,
continuing to drink from a jug of wine they had
purchased. They went over the crest of the first
hill, and the pueblo of Reina de Los Angeles was
lost to view, and all they could see was the highway
twisting before them like a great dusty serpent, and
the brown hills, and a few buildings in the dis-
tance, where some man had his hacienda.

They made a turning, and found a horseman con-
fronting them, sitting easily in the saddle, with his
horse standing across the road in such manner that
they could not pass.

*^Turn your horse — turn your beast!'' the dealer
in hides and tallow cried. '^ Would you have me
drive over you!"

The assistant gave an exclamation that was part
of fear, and the dealer looked more closely at the
horseman. His jaw dropped, his eyes bulged.

** 'Tis Senor Zorro!" he exclaimed. '^By the
saints ! 'tis the Curse of Capistrano, away down here

SWIFT PUNISHMENT 163

near San Gabriel. You would not bother me, Seiior
Zorro ? I am a poor man, and have no money. Only
yesterday a fray swindled me, and I have been to
Eeina de Los Angeles seeking justice.''

''Did you get itf Senor Zorro asked.

'^The magisirado was kind, senor. He ordered
the fray to repay me, but I do not know when I
shall get the money.''

*'Get out of the carreta, and your assistant also !"
Senor Zorro commanded.

''But I have no money — " the dealer protested.

"Out of the carreta with you! Do I have to re-
quest it twice? Move, or lead finds a lodging place
in your carcass!"

Now the dealer saw that the highwayman held a
pistol in his hand, and he squealed with sudden
fright and got out of the cart as speedily as possible,
his assistant tumbling out at his heels. They stood
in the dusty highway before Senor Zorro, trembling
with fear, the dealer begging for mercy.

' ' I have no money with me, kind highwayman, but
I shall get it for you!" the dealer cried. "I shall
carry it to where you say, whenever you wish — "

"Silence, beast!" Senor Zorro cried. "I do not
want your money, perjurer! I know all about the
farce of a trial at Eeina de Los Angeles; I have
ways of finding out about such things speedily.

"So the aged fray swindled you, eh? Liar and
thief! 'Tis you who are the swindler! And they
gave that old and godly man fifteen lashes across
his bare back, because of the lies you told! And

164 THE MARK OF ZOREO

you and the magistrado will divide the money of
which you swindled him ! ' '

**I swear by the saints — "

*^Do not! You have done enough false swearing
already. Step forward ! ' '

The dealer complied, trembling as if with a dis-
ease; and Seiior Zorro dismounted swiftly and
walked around in front of his horse. The dealer's
assistant was standing beside the carreta, and his
face was white.

*' Forward!" Senor Zorro commanded again.

Again the dealer complied; but suddenly he be-
gan to beg for mercy, for Senor Zorro had taken a
mule whip from beneath his long cloak, and held it
ready in his right hand, while he held the pistol
in his left.

* ^ Turn your back ! " he commanded now.

*' Mercy, good highwayman! Am I to be beaten
as well as robbed? You would whip an honest mer-
chant because of a thieving fray 9^^

The first blow fell, and the dealer shrieked with
pain. His last remark appeared to have given
strength to the highwayman's arm. The second
blow fell, and the dealer in hides and tallow went
to his knees in the dusty highroad.

Then Seiior Zorro returned his pistol to his belt,
and stepped forward and grasped the dealer's mop
of hair with his left hand, so as to hold him up,
and with the right he rained heavy blows with the
mule whip upon the man's back, until his tough coat

SWIFT PUNISHMENT 165

and shirt were cut to ribbons, and the blood soaked
through.

*^That for a man who perjures himself and has
an honest fray punished ! ' ' Senor Zorro cried.

And then he gave his attention to the assistant.

*^No doubt, young man, you but carried out your
master's orders when you lied before the magis-
trado/' he said, ^*but you must be taught to be
honest and fair, no matter what the circumstances.''

^' Mercy, senor!'' the assistant howled.

**Did you not laugh when the fray was being
whipped? Are you not filled with mne now because
you have been celebrating the punishment that godly
man received for something he did not do?"

Senor Zorro grasped the youth by the nape of
his neck, whirled him around, and sent a stiff blow
at his shoulders. The boy shrieked, and then began
whimpering. Five lashes in all he received, for
Senor Zorro apparently did not wish to render him
unconscious. And finally he hurled the boy from
him, and looped his whip.

*^Let us hope both of you have learned your les-
son," he said. *^Get into the carreta, and drive on.
And when yon speak of this occurrence, tell the
truth, else I hear of it and punish you again! Let
me not learn that you have said some fifteen or
twenty men surrounded and held you while I worked
with the whip!"

The apprentice sprang into the cart, and his mas-
ter followed, and they whipped up and disappeared

166 THE ]!fIAEK OF ZOEEO

in a cloud of dust toward San Gabriel. Senor Zorro
looked after them for a time, then lifted his mask
and wiped the perspiration from his face, and then
mounted his horse again, fastening the mule whip
to the pommel of his saddle.

CHAPTER XXIII

MOEE PUNISHMENT

SeS'or Zorro rode quickly to the crest of the hill
beneath which was the puehlo, and there he stopped
his horse and looked down at the village.

It was almost dark, but he could see quite well
enough for his purpose. Candles had been lighted
in the tavern; and from the building came the
sounds of raucous song and loud jest. Candles were
burning at the presidio and from some of the houses
came the odor of cooking food.

Senor Zorro rode on down the hill. Wlien he
reached the edge of the plaza he put spurs to his
horse, and dashed up to the tavern door, before
which half a dozen men were congregated, the most
of them under the influence of wine.

** Landlord!" he cried.

None of the men about the door gave him par-
ticular attention at first, thinking he was but some
caballero on a journey wishing refreshment. The
landlord hurried out, rubbing his fat hands together,
and stepped close to the horse. And then he saw
that the rider was masked, and that the muzzle of
a pistol was threatening him.

^^Is the magistrado within T' Seiior Zorro asked.

''Si, Senor f'

167

168 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

*^ Stand where you are and pass the word for
him. Say there is a caballero here who wishes
speech with him regarding»a certain matter."

The terrified landlord shrieked for the magistrado,
and the word was passed inside. Presently the
judge came staggering out, crying in a loud voice
to know who had summoned him from his pleasant
entertainment.

He staggered up to the horse, and put one hand
against it, and looked up to find two glittering eyes
regarding him through a mask. He opened his
mouth to shriek, but Senor Zorro warned him in
time.

**Not a sound, or you die!" he said. **I have
come to punish you. To-day you passed judgment
on a godly man who was innocent. Moreover, you
knew of his innocence, and his trial was but a farce.
By your order he received a certain number of
lashes. You shall have the same payment."

**You dare — "

*^ Silence!" the highwayman commanded. ^^Yon
about the door there — come to my side!" he called.

They crowded forward, the most of them peons
who thought that here was a caballero who wished
something done and had gold to pay for it. In
the dusk they did not see the mask and pistol until
they stood beside the horse, and it was too late to
retreat then.

*^We are going to punish this unjust magistrado/*
Senor Zorro told them. **The five of you will seize
him now, and conduct him to the post in the middle

MORE PUK[SH:MEXT 169

of the plaza, and there you will tie him. The first
man to falter receives a slug of lead from my pistol,
and my blade will deal with the others. And I wish
speed, also."

The frightened magistrado began to screech now.

** Laugh loudly, that his cries may not be heard,"
the highwayman ordered; and the men laughed as
loudly as they could, albeit there was a peculiar
quality to their laughter.

They seized the magistrado by the arms and con-
ducted him to the post, and bound him there with
thongs.

* ' You will line up, ' ' Senor Zorro told them. ^ ^ Yon
will take this whip, and each of you will lash this
man five times. I shall be watching, and if I see
the whip fall lightly once I shall deal out punish-
ment. Begin!"

He tossed the whip to the first man, and the pun-
ishment began. Senor Zorro had no fault to find
with the manner in which it was given, for there was
great fear in the hearts of the peons, and they
whipped with strength, and willingly.

**You, also, landlord!" Senor Zorro said.

*^He will put me in car eel for it afterward," the
landlord wailed.

'*X)o you prefer car eel or a cofiin, senor?" the
highwayman asked.

It became evident that the landlord preferred the
carcel. He picked up the whip, and he surpassed
the peons in the strength of his blows.

The magistrado was hanging heavily from the

170 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

thongs now. Unconsciousness had come to him with
about the fifteenth blow, more through fear than
through pain and punishment.

** Unfasten the man," the highwayman ordered.

Two men sprang forward to do his bidding.

*^ Carry him to his house," Senor Zorro went on.
*'And tell the people of the puehlo that this is the
manner in which Senor Zorro punishes those who
oppress the poor and helpless, who give unjust ver-
dicts and who steal in the name of the law. Go
your ways!"

The magi sir ado was carried away, groaning, con-
sciousness returning to him now. Senor Zorro
turned once more to the landlord.

*^We shall return to the tavern," he said. ^^You
will go inside and fetch me a mug of wine, and stand
beside my horse while I drink it. It would be only
a waste of breath for me to say what will happen
to you if you attempt treachery on the way."

But there was fear of the magistrado in the land-
lord's heart as great as his fear of Senor Zorro.
He went back to the tavern beside the highwayman's
horse, and he hurried inside, as if to get the wine.
But he sounded the alarm.

*' Senor Zorro is without," he hissed at those near-
est the table. *^He has just caused the magistrado
to be whipped cruelly. He has sent me to get him
a mug of wine."

Then he went on to the wine cask and began draw-
ing the drink slowly as possible.

There was sudden activity inside the tavern.

MOEE PUNISHMENT 171

Some half-dozen caballeros were there, men who
followed in the footsteps of the governor. Now they
drew their blades and began creeping toward the
door, and one of them who possessed a pistol and
had it in his sash, drew it out, saw that it was pre-
pared for work, and followed in their wake.

Senor Zorro, sitting his horse some twenty feet
from the door of the tavern, suddenly beheld a
throng rush out at him, saw the light flash from
half a dozen blades, heard the report of a pistol,
and heard a ball whistle past his head.

The landlord was standing in the doorway, pray-
ing that the highwayman would be captured, for
then he would be given some credit, and perhaps the
magistrado would not punish him for having used
the lash.

Senor Zorro caused his horse to rear high in the
air, and then raked the beast mth the spurs. The
animal sprang forward, into the midst of the cabal-
leros, scattering them.

That was what Senor Zorro wanted. His blade
already was out of its scabbard, and it passed
through a man's sword-arm, swung over and drew
blood on another.

He fenced like a maniac, maneuvering his horse to
keep his antagonists separated, so that only one
could get at him at a time. Now the air was filled
with shrieks and cries, and men came tumbling from
the houses to ascertain the cause of the commotion.
Senor Zorro knew that some of them would have
pistols, and while he feared no blade, he realized

172 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

that a man could stand some distance away and cut
him down with a pistol-ball.

So he caused his horse to plunge forward again,
and, before the fat landlord realized it, Senor Zorro
was beside him, and had reached down and grasped
him by the arm. The horse darted away, the fat
landlord dragging, shrieking for rescue and begging
for mercy in the same breath. Senor Zorro rode
with him to the whipping-post.

' ' Hand me that whip ! " he commanded.

The shrieking landlord obeyed, and called upon
the saints to protect him. And then Seiior Zorro
turned him loose, and curled the whip around his fat
middle, and as the landlord tried to run he cut at
him again and again. He left him once to charge
down upon those who had blades and so scatter them,
and then he was back with the landlord again, ap-
plying the whip.

^^You tried treachery!" he cried. **Dog of a
thief! You would send men about my ears, eh? I'll
strip your tough hide — "

** Mercy!" the landlord shrieked, and fell to the
ground.

Senor Zorro cut at him again, bringing forth a
yell more than blood. He wheeled his horse and
darted at the nearest of his foes. Another pistol-
ball whistled past his head, another man sprang at
him with blade ready. Senor Zorro ran the man
neatly through the shoulder and put spurs to his
horse again. He galloped as far as the whipping-

MOEE PUNISHMENT 173

post, and tHere he stopped his horse and faced them
for an instant.

* ' There are not enough of you to make a fight in-
teresting, senores/' he cried.

He swept off his sombrero and bowed to them in
nice mockery, and then he wheeled his horse again
and dashed away.

CHAPTER XXIV

AT THE HACIEXDA OF DOX ALEJAXDEO

Behind Mm he left a tumult in the town. The
shrieks of the fat landlord had aroused the puehlo.
Men came running, servants hurrying at their sides
and carrying torches. Women peered from the win-
dows of the houses. Natives stood still wherever
they happened to be, and shivered, for it had been
their dear experience that whenever there was a
tumult natives paid the price.

Many young cahaUeros of hot blood were there,
and for some time there had been no excitement in
the piiehlo of Reina de Los Angeles. These young
men crowded into the tavern and listened to the
wails of the landlord, and some hurried to the house
of the magistrado and saw his wounds, and heard
him declaim on the indignity that had been offered
the law, and therefore his excellency the governor.

Captain Ramon came down from the presidio, and
when he heard the cause of the tumult he swore
great oaths, and sent his only well man to ride along
the Pala Road, overtake Sergeant Gonzales and his
troopers, and bid them return and take the trail,
since at the time being they were following a false
scent.

But the young cdbdlleros saw in this circumstance
a chance for excitement that was to their liking, and

174

AT HACIENDA OF DON ALEJANDEO 175

they asked permission of the comandante to form
a posse and take after the highwayman, a permission
they received immediately.

Some thirty of them mounted horses, looked to
weapons, and set out, with the intention of dividing
into three bands of ten each when they came to forks
in the trail.

The townsmen cheered them as they started, and
they galloped rapidly uj) the hill and toward the
San Gabriel road, making a deal of noise, glad that
now there was a moon to let them see the foe when
they approached him.

In time they separated, ten going toward San
Gabriel proper, ten taking the trail that led to the
hacienda of Fray Felipe, and the last ten following
a road that curved down the valley to the neighbor-
hood of a series of landed estates owned by wealthy
dons of the day.

Along this road Don Diego Vega had ridden some
time before, the deaf and dumb Bernardo behind
him on the mule. Don Diego rode with leisure, and
it was long after nightfall when he turned from the
main road and followed a narrower one toward his
father's house.

Don Alejandro Vega, the head of the family, sat
alone at his table, the remains of the evening meal
before him, when he heard a horseman before the
door. A servant ran to open it, and Don Diego
entered, Bernardo following close behind him.

*^Ah, Diego, my son!'* the old don cried, extend-
ing his arms.

176 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

Don Diego was clasped for an instant to his
father's breast, and then he sat down beside the
table and grasped a mng of wine. Having refreshed
hiniseK, he faced Don Alejandro once more.

*^It has been a fatiguing jonmey!" he remarked.

^^And the canse for it, my son?"

**I felt that I should come to the haciejida/' Don
Diego said. '^It is no time to be in the puehlo.
"Wherever a man turns, he finds naught but violence
and bloodshed. This confounded Seiior Zorro — "

^'Ha! What of him?"

*^ Please do not *Ha!' me, sir and father. I have
been *Ha'd!' at from morning until night these sev-
eral days. These be turbulent times.

*'This Senor Zorro has made a visit to the Pulido
hacienda and frightened eveiy one there. I went
to my hacienda on business, and from there I went
over to see old Fray Felipe, thinking I might get a
chance to meditate in his presence. And who makes
an appearance but a big sergeant and his troopers
seeking this Senor Zorro I"

*^They caught him?"

**I believe not. sir and father. I returned to the
imetJo; and what think you happened there this
day? They brought in Fray Felipe, accused of hav-
ing swindled a dealer, and after a mockery of a
trial they lashed him to a post and gave him the
whip fifteen times across his back."

^^The scoundrels!" Don Alejandro cried.

*^I could stand it no longer, and so I decided to

AT HACIENDA OF DON ALEJANDRO 177

pay yon a visit. Wherever I turn, there is turmoil.
It is enough to make a man insane. You may ask
Bernardo if it is not.''

Don Alejandro glanced at the deaf and dumb na-
tive and grinned. Bernardo grinned back as a mat-
ter of course, not knowing it was no manner in which
to act in the presence of a don.

**You have something else to tell me?" Don Ale-
jandro asked his son, looking at him searchingly.

^'By the saints! Now it comes! I had hoped to
avoid it, father and sir."

*^Let me hear about it."

*^I paid a visit to the Pulido hacienda, and spoke
with Don Carlos and his wife, also the Senorita
Lolita."

^*You were pleased with the senorita?"

**She is as lovely as any girl of my acquaintance,"
Don Diego said. ^^I spoke to Don Carlos of the
matter of marriage, and he appeared to be de-
lighted."

*^Ah! He would be!" said Don Alejandro.

*^But the marriage cannot take place, I fear."

*^How is this? There is some shadow concerning
the senorita?"

**Not to my knowledge. She appears to be a
sweet and innocent maiden, father and sir. I had
them come to Reina de Los Angeles and spend a
couple of days at my house. I had it arranged so
that she could see the furnishings, and learn of my
wealth."

178 THE MAEK OF ZORRO

*^That was a wise arrangement, my son."

**But she will have none of me.''

*'How is this! Refuses to wed with a Vega? Re-
fuses to become allied to the most powerful family
in the country, with the best blood in the land?"

*^She intimated, father and sir, that I am not the
sort of man for her. She is prone to foolishness, I
believe. She would have me play a guitar under
her window, perhaps, and make eyes, and hold hands
when her duena is not looking, and all that silli-
ness."

**By the saints! Are you a Vega?" Don Alejan-
dro cried. *^ "Would not any worthy man want a
chance like that? Would not any cahallero delight
to serenade his love on a moonlight night? The
little things you term silly are the very essence of
love. I doubt not the sefiorita was displeased with
you."

*^But I did not see that such things were neces-
sary," Don Diego said.

^^Did you go to the senorita in a cold-blooded
manner and suggest that you wed and have it done
with? Had you the idea, young sir, that you were
purchasing a horse or a bull? By the saints! And
so there is no chance for you to wed the girl? She
has the best blood by far, next to our own."

''Don Carlos bade me have hope," Diego replied.
*'He took her back to the hacienda^ and suggested
that perhaps when she had been there a time and
had reflected she might change her mind."

*'She is yours, if you play the game!" Don Ale-

AT HACIENDA OF DON ALEJANDRO 179

jandro said. "You are a Vega, and therefore the
best catch in the country. Be but half a lover, and
the sefiorita is yours. "What sort of blood is in your
veins? I have half a mind to slit one of them and
see."

** Cannot vre allow this marriage business to drop
for the time being?" Don Diego asked.

"You are twenty-five. I was quite old when you
were born. Soon I shall go the way of my fathers.
You are the only son, the heir, and you must have
a wife and offspring. Is the Vega family to die
out because your blood is water? Win you a wife
within the quarter year, young sir, and a wife I
can accept into the family, or I leave my wealth to
the Franciscans when I pass awayl"

"My father!"

"I mean it ! Get life into you! I would you had
half the courage and spirit this SeSor Zorro, this
highwayman, has ! He has principles, and he fights
for them. He aids the helpless and avenges the
oppressed.

"I salute him! I would rather have you, my son,
in his place, running the risk of death or imprison-
ment, than to have you a lifeless dreamer of dreams
that amount to naught!"

"My father! I have been a dutiful son!"

"I would you had been a little wild — it would have
been more natural," Don Alejandro sighed. "I
could overlook a few escapades more easily than I
can lifelessness. Arouse yourself, young sir! Re-
member that you are a Vega.

180 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

*'Wlien I was your age, I was not a laughing-
stock. I was ready to fight at a wink, to make love
to every pair of flashing eyes, to stand np to any
caballero in sports rough or refined. Ha!''

^^I pray you, do not 'Ha !' me, sir and father. My
nerves are on an edge."

*'You must be more of a man!"

*'I shall attempt it immediately," Don Diego said,
straightening himself somewhat in his chair. *'I
had hoped to avoid it, but it appears that I cannot.
I shall woo the Seiiorita Lolita as other men woo
maidens. You meant what you said about your for-
tune?"

**I did!" said Don Alejandro.

*'Then I must bestir myself. It would never do,
of course, to let that fortune go out of the family.
I shall think these matters over in peace and quiet
to-night. Perhaps I can meditate here, far from the
pueblo. By the saints!"

The last exclamation was caused by a sudden tu-
mult outside the house. Don Alejandro and his son
heard a number of horsemen stop, heard their calls
to one another, heard bridles jingling and blades
rattling.

''There is no peace in all the world!" Don Diego
said, with deepened gloom.

*'It sounds like half a score of men," Don Alejan-
dro said.

It was — exactly. A servant opened the door, and
into the great room there strode ten cahaUeros, with
blades at their sides and pistols in their belts.

AT HACIENDA OF DON ALEJANDEO 181

**Ha, Don Alejandro ! We crave hospitality!" the
foremost cried.

*'You have it without asking, cahalleros. What
manner of jouniey is this you takef

*^We pursue Senor Zorro, the highwayman."

*^By the saints!" Don Diego cried. '*One cannot
escape it even here ! Violence and bloodshed ! ' ^

**He invaded the plaza at Reina de Los Angeles,"
the spokesman went on. **He had the magistrado
whipped because he sentenced Fray Fehpe to receive
the lash, and he whipped the fat landlord, and he
fought half a score of men while he was about it.
Then he rode away, and we made up a band to
pursue him. He has not been in this neighbor-
hood T'

*^Not to my knowledge," Don Alejandro said.
'^My son arrived off the highway but a short time
ago."

^^You did not see the fellow, Don Diego!"

* ^ I did not, ' ' Don Diego said. * ' That is one stroke
of good fortune that came my way."

Don Alejandro had sent for servants, and now
wine mugs were on the long table, and heaps of
small cakes, and the cahalleros began to eat and
drink. Don Diego knew well what that meant.
Their pursuit of the highwayman was at an end,
their enthusiasm had waned. They would sit at
his father's table and drink throughout the night,
gradually getting intoxicated, shout and sing and
tell stories, and in the morning ride back to Reina
de Los Angeles like so many heroes.

182 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

It was the custom. The chase of Seiior Zorro was
but a pretext for a merry time.

The servants brought great stone jugs filled with
rare wine, and put them on the table, and Don Ale-
jandro ordered that meat be fetched also. The
young cahalleros had a weakness for these parties
at Don Alejandro's, for the don's good wife had
been dead for several years, and there were no
women folk except servants, and so they could make
what noise they pleased throughout the night.

In time they put aside pistols and blades, and be-
gan to boast and brag, and Don Alejandro had his
servants put the weapons in a far corner out of the
way, for he did not wish a drunken quarrel, with
a dead caballero or two in his house.

Don Diego drank and talked with them for a time,
and then sat to one side and listened, as if such
foolishness bored him.

*'It were well for this Senor Zorro that we did
not catch up with him," one cried. **Any one of
us is a match for the fellow. Were the soldiers men
of merit he would have been taken long before this.''

''Ha, for a chance at him!" another screeched.
^'How the landlord did howl when he was whipped !"

''He rode in this direction?" Don Alejandro
asked.

"We are not sure as to that. He took the San
Gabriel trail, and thirty of us followed. We sepa-
rated into three bands, each going a different direc-
tion. It is the good fortune of one of the other

AT HACIENDA OF DON ALEJANDEO 183

bands to have him now, I suppose. But it is our
excellent good fortune to be here. ' '

Don Diego stood before the company.

^^Senores, you will pardon me, I know, if I re-
tire," he said. "I am fatigued with the journey.''

^* Retire, by all means,'' one of his friends cried.
**And when you are rested, come out to us again
and make merry."

They laughed at that ; and Don Diego bowed cere-
moniously, and observed that several scarcely could
get to their feet to bow in return, and then the scion
of the house of Vega hurried from the room with
the deaf and dumb man at his heels.

He entered a room that always was ready for him,
and in v\'hich a candle already was burning, and
closed the door behind him, and Bernardo stretched
his big form on the floor just outside it, to guard
his master during the night.

In the great living-room, Don Diego scarcely was
missed. His father was fro^vning and twisting his
mustache, for he would have had his son like other
young men. In his youth, he was remembering, he
never left such a company early in the evening. And
once again he sighed and ^vished that the saints had
given him a son with red blood in his veins.

The cahalleros were singing now, joining in the
chorus of a popular love song, and their discordant
voices filled the big room. Don Alejandro smiled
as he listened, for it brought his own youth back
to him.

184 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

They sprawled on chairs and benches on both sides
of the long table, pounding it with their mugs as
they sang, laughing boisterously now and then.

*'Were this Seiior Zorro only here now!'' one of
them cried.

A voice from the doorway answered him :

^^Senores, he is here!''

CHAPTER XXV

A LEAGUE IS FORMED

The song ceased ; the laughter was stilled. They
blinked their eyes and looked across the room.
Senor Zorro stood just inside the door, having en-
tered from the veranda without them knowing it.
He wore his long cloak and his mask, and in one
hand he held his accursed pistol, and its muzzle was
pointed at the table.

^^So these are the manner of men who pursue
Senor Zorro and hope to take him ! " he said. ' ' Make
not a move, else lead flies! Your weapons, I per-
ceive, are in the comer. I could kill some of you
and be gone before you could reach them!"

^ ^ 'Tis he ! 'Tis he ! " a tipsy cahallero was crying.

^'Your noise may be heard a mile away, senores!
What a posse to go pursuing a man! Is this th^
way you attend to duty? Why have you stopped to
make merry while Senor Zorro rides the highway?"

*^Give me my blade and let me stand before him!''
one cried.

*'If I allowed you to have blade, you would be un-
able to stand !'' the highwayman answered. '^ Think
you there is one in this company who could fence
with me now?"

^^ There is one!" cried Don Alejandro, in a loud
voice, springing to his feet. '^I openly say that I

185

186 THE MAEK OF ZOERO

Iiave admired some of the things you have done,
senor; but now you have entered my house and are
abusing my guests, and I must call you to account !''

*^I have no quarrel with you, Don Alejandro, and
you have none with me!'' Senor Zorro said. *^I
refuse to cross blades with you. And I am but tell-
ing these men some truths."

**By the saints, I shall make you!"

**A moment, Don Alejandro! Senores, this aged
don would fight me, and that would mean a wound
or death for him. Will you allow it?"

*'Don Alejandro must not fight our battles!" one
of them cried.

*'Then see that he sits in his place, and all honor
to him I"

Don Alejandro started forward, but two of the
cdballeros sprang before him and urged him to go
back, saying that his honor was safe, since he offered
combat. Raging, Don Alejandro complied.

'^A worthy bunch of young blades!" Senor Zorro
sneered. **You drink wine and make merry while
injustice is all about you. Take your swords in
hand and attack oppression ! Live up to your noble
names and your blue blood, senores! Drive the
thieving politicians from the land! Protect the
frailes whose work gave us these broad acres ! Be
men, not drunken fashion-plates!"

**By the saints!" one cried, and sprang to his
feet.

**Back, or I fire! I have not come here to fight
you in Don Alejandro's house. I respect him too

A LEAGUE IS FORMED 187

mncli for that. I have come to tell you these truths
concerning yourselves.

^^Your families can make or break a governor!
Band yourselves together in a good cause, cahal-
leroSj and make some use of your lives ! You would
do it, were you not afraid. You seek adventure!
Here is adventure a plenty, fighting injustice.'*

^'By the saints, it would be a lark!'* cried one m
answer.

''Look upon it as a lark if it pleases you, yet you
would be doing some good. "Would the politicians
dare stand against you, scions of the most powerful
families? Band yourselves together and give your-
selves a name. Make yourselves feared the length
and breadth of the land!''

**It would be treason — "

*'It is not treason to down a tyrant, cahalleros!
Is it that you are afraid?"

''By the saints — no!" they cried in chorus.

*'Then make your stand!"

*'You would lead us?"

''Si, Senores!''

*'But stay! Are you of good blood?"

*'I am a cahallero, of blood as good as any here!'*
Senor Zorro told them.

*'Your name? Where resides your family?"

"Those things must remain secrets for the pres-
ent. I have given you my word ! ' '

"Your face — "

"Must remain masked for the time being,
senor es!"

188 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

They had lurched to their feet now, and were ao
claiming him wildly.

^^Stay!" one cried. *'This is an imposition upon
Don Alejandro. He may not be in sympathy, and
we are planning and plotting in his house — ''

^^I am in sympathy, cahalleros, and give you my
support!" Don Alejandro said.

Their cheers filled the great room. None could
stand against them if Don Alejandro Vega was with
them. Xot even the governor himself would dare
oppose them.

^'It is a bargain!" they cried. ''"We shall call
ourselves the avengers! "We shall ride El Camino
Eeal and prove terrors to those who rob honest men
and mistreat natives ! We shall drive the thieving
politicians out!"

''And then you shall be cahalleros in truth,
knights protecting the weak," Senor Zorro said.
"Xever shall you repent this decision, senor es I I
lead, and I give you loyalty and expect as much^
Also, I expect obedience to orders!"

"What shall we do?" they cried.

"Let this remain a secret. In the morning, re-
turn to Reina de Los Angeles and say you did not
find Senor Zorro — say rather that you did not catch
him, which will be the truth. Be ready to band your-
selves together and ride. I shall send word when
the time arrives."

"In what manner?"

"I know you all. I shall get word to one, and
lie can inform the others. It is agreed?"

A LEAGUE IS FORMED 189

** Agreed!'^ they shouted.

*'Then I will leave you here and now. You are
to remain in this room, and none is to try to follow
me. It is a command. Biienas noclies, caballeros!^'

He bowed before them, swung the door open
and darted through it, and slammed it shut behind
him.

They could hear the clatter of a horse's hoofs on
the driveway.

And then they raised their wine mugs and drank
to their new league for the suppression of swindlers
and thieves, and to Senor Zorro, the Curse of Cap-
istrano, and to Don Alejandro Vega, somewhat so-
bered by the agreement they had made and what
it meant. They sat down again, and began speak-
ing of wrongs that should be righted, each of them
knowing half a dozen.

And Don Alejandro Vega sat in one corner, by
himself, a grief-stricken man because his only son
was asleep in the house and had not red blood enough
to take a part in such an undertaking, when by all
rights he should be one of the leaders.

As if to add to his misery, Don Diego at that mo-
ment came slowly into the room, rubbing his eyes
and yawning, and looking as if he had been dis-
turbed.

**It is impossible for a man to sleep in this house
to-night, '^ he said. ^^Give me a mug of wine, and I
shall take my place with you. Why was the cheer-
ingr'

** Senor Zorro has been here — '' his father began.

190 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

**The highwayman? Been here? By the saints!
It is as much as a man can endure !''

**Sit down, my son!'' Don Alejandro urged.
"Certain things have come to pass. There will be
a chance now for you to show what sort of blood
flows in your veins ! ' '

Don Alejandro's manner was very determined.

CHAPTER XXVI

AN UNDERSTANDING

The remainder of the night was spent by the
cahalleros in loud boasts of what they intended
doing, and in making plans to be submitted to Senor
Zorro for his approval; and, though they appeared
to look upon this thing as a lark and a means to
adventure, yet there was an undercurrent of serious-
ness in their manner. For they knew well the state
of the times, and realized that things were not as
they should be, and in reality they were exponents
of fairness to all; they had thought of these things
often, but had made no move because they had not
been banded together and had no leader, and eack
young caballero waited for another to start the
thing. But now this Senor Zorro had struck at the
psychological moment, and things could be done.

Don Diego was informed of the state of affairs^
and his father informed him, likewise, that he was
to play a part and prove himself a man. Don Diegcr
fumed considerably and declared that such a thing
would cause his death, yet he would do it for Ms
father's sake.

Early in the morning the cahalleros ate a meal,
that Don Alejandro caused to be prepared, and then
they started back to Eeina de Los Angeles, Dqk

191

192 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

Diego riding ^^ith them at his father's order. Noth-
ing was to be said about their plans. They were
to get recruits from the remainder of the thirty
who had set out in pursuit of Senor Zorro. Some
would join them readily, they knew, while others
were the governor's men pure and simple, and would
have to be kept in the dark concerning the thing
contemplated.

They rode leisurely, for which Don Diego re-
marked that he was grateful. Bernardo was still
following him on the mule, and was a little cha-
grined because Don Diego had not remained longer
at his father's house. Bernardo knew something
momentous was being planned, but could not guess
what, of course, and wished that he was like other
men, and could hear and speak.

"When they reached the plaza, they found that the
other two parties already were there, saying that
they had not come up with the highwayman. Some
declared that thev had seen him in the distance,
and one that he had fired a pistol at him, at which
the cahaUeros who had been at Don Alejandro's put
their tongues in their cheeks and looked at one an-
other in a peculiar manner.

Don Diego left his companions and hurried to his
house, where he donned fresh clothing and refreshed
himself generally. He sent Bernardo about his
business, which was to sit in the kitchen and await
Ms master's call. And then he ordered his carriage
around.

That carriage was one of the most gorgeous along

AN UXDEESTAXDIXa 193

El Camino Real, and why Don Diego had purchased
it had always been a mystery. There were some who
said he did it to show his wealth, while others de-
clared a manufacturer's agent had worried him so
much that Don Diego had given him the order to be
rid of him.

Don Diego came from his house dressed in his
best; but he did not get into the carriage. Again
there was a tumult in the plaza, and into it rode
Sergeant Pedro Gonzales and his troopers. The
man Captain Eamon had sent after them had over-
taken them easily, for they had been riding slowly
and had not covered many miles.

**Ha, Don Diego, my friend!" Gonzales cried.
** Still living in this turbulent world?"

*'From necessity," Don Diego replied. *'Did you
capture this Senor Zorro!"

*^The pretty bird escaped us, caballero. It ap-
pears that he turned toward San Gabriel that night,
while we went chasing him toward Pala. Ah, well,
'tis nothing to make a small mistake ! Our revenge
shall be the greater when we find him."

*^"Wliat do you now, my sergeant?"

**My men refresh themselves, and then we ride
toward San Gabriel. It is said the highwayman is
in that vicinity, though some thirty young men of
blood failed to find him last night after he had
caused the magistrado to be whipped. Xo doubt he
hid himself in the brush and chuckled when the
cahalleros rode by."

**May your horse have speed and your sword-arm

194 THE MAEK OF ZOERO

strength !'' Don Diego said, and got into his car*
riage.

Two magnificent horses were hitched to the car-
riage, and a native coachman in rich livery drove
them. Don Diego stretched back on the cushions
and half closed his eyes as the carriage started.
The driver went across the plaza and turned into the
highway, and started toward the hacienda of Don
Carlos Puhdo.

Sitting on his veranda, Don Carlos saw the gor-
geous carriage approaching, and growled low down
in his throat, and then got up and hurried into the
house, to face his wife and daughter.

^^Senorita, Don Diego comes,'' he said. ^'I have
spoken words regarding the young man, and I trust
that you have given heed to them as a dutiful daugh-
ter should.'*

Then he turned and went out to the veranda again,
and the senorita rushed into her room and threw
herself upon a couch to weep. The saints knew she
wished that she could feel some love for Don Diego
and take him for a husband, for it would help her
father's fortunes, vet she felt that she could not.

"Why did not the man act the cahallerof Why
did he not exhibit a certain measure of common
sense? Why did he not show that he was a young
man bursting with health, instead of acting like an
aged don with one foot in the grave?

Don Diego got from the carriage and waved to
the driver to continue to the stable-vard. He
greeted Don Carlos languidly, and Don Carlos was

AN UNDEESTANDING 195

surprised to note that Don Diego had a gnitar be-
neath one arm. He put the guitar down on the floor,
removed his sombrero, and sighed.

**I have been out to see my father/' he said.

*^Ha! Don Alejandro is well, I hope!''

'*He is in excellent health, as usual. He has in-
structed me to persist in my suit for the Senorita
Lolita's hand. If I do not win me a wife within a
certain time, he says, he will give his fortune to the
Franciscans when he passes away."

*^ Indeed?"

*^He said it, and my father is not a man to waste
his words. Don Carlos, I must win the senorita!
I know of no other young woman who would be
as acceptable to my father as a daughter-in-law."

*'A little wooing, Don Diego, I beg of you. Be
not so matter-of-fact, I pray."

**I have decided to woo as other men, though it
no doubt will be much of a bore. How would you
suggest that I start!"

*^It is difficult to give advice in such a case," Don
Carlos replied, trying desperately to remember how
he had done it when he had courted Dona Catahna.
**A man really should be experienced, else be a man
to whom such things come naturally."

*'I fear I am neither," Don Diego said, sighing
again and raising tired eyes to Don Carlos 's face.

*^It might be an excellent thing to regard the
senorita as if you adored her. Say nothing about
marriage at first, but speak rather of love. Try to
talk in low, rich tones, and say those meaningless

196 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

notliings in which a young woman can find a world
of meaning. 'Tis a gentle art — saying one thing
and meaning another."

^'I fear that it is beyond me," Don Diego said.
*^Yet I must try, of course. I may see the senorita
now?"

Don Carlos went to the doorway and called his
wife and daughter, and the former smiled upon Don
Diego in encouragement, and the latter smiled also,
yet with fear and trembling. For she had given her
heart to the unknown Senor Zorro, and could love
no other man, and could not wed where she did not
love, not even to save her father from poverty.

Don Diego conducted the senorita to a bench at
one end of the veranda, and started to talk of things
in general, plucking at the strings of his guitar as
he did so, while Don Carlos and his wife removed
themselves to the other end of the veranda and
hoped that things would go well.

Senorita Lolita was glad that Don Diego did not
speak of marriage as he had done before. Instead,
he told of what had happened in the piiehlo, of Fray
Felipe's whipping, and of how Senor Zorro had pun-
ished the magistrado, and fought a dozen men, and
made his escape. Despite his air of languor, Don
Diego spoke in an interesting mamier, and the
senorita found herself liking him more than before.

He told, too, of how he had gone to his father's
Jiacieyiday and of how the cahalleros had spent the
night there, drinking and making merry ; but he said
nothing of Senor Zorro 's visit and the league that

AN UNDEESTANDING 197

had been formed, having taken his oath not to do so.

*^My father threatens to disinherit me if I do
not get me a mfe within a specified time,'' Don
Diego said then. ** Would yon like to see me lose
my father's estate, senoritaf"

** Certainly not," she replied. ^' There are many
girls who would be proud to wed you, Don Diego."

'^But not your'

** Certainly, I would be proud. But can a girl
help it if her heart does not speak? "Would you
wish a wife who did not love you? Think of the
long years you would have to spend beside her,
and no love to make them endurable."

*^You do not think, then, that you ever could learn
to love me, senoritaf

Suddenly the girl faced him and spoke in lower
tones, and earnestly.

'^You are a cdballero of the blood, senor, I may
trust you?"

'*To death, senoritaf

**Then I have something to tell you. And I ask
that you let it remain your secret. It is an expla-
nation in a way. ' '

'^Proceed, senorita/'

**If my heart bade me do so, nothing would please
me more than to become your wife, senor, for I
know that it would mend my father's fortunes. But
perhaps I am too honest to wed where I do not love.
There is one great reason why I cannot love you."

^' There is some other man in your heart?"

**You have guessed it, senor. My heart is filled

198 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

^\dtli his image. You would not want me for wife
in such ease. My parents do not know. You must
keep my secret. I swear by the saints that I have
spoken the truth.''

*^The man is worthy?"

**I feel sure that he is, cahaUero. Did he prove
to be otherwise, I should grieve my life away, yet
I never could love another man. You understand
now!"

^'I understand fully, senorita. May I express the
hope that you will find him worthy and in time the
man of your choice?"

^^I knew you would be the true cahaUero!^'

*^And if things should go amiss, and you need a
friend, command me, senorita.' '

**My father must not suspect at the present time.
We must let him think that you still seek me, and
I will pretend to be thinking more of you than be-
fore. And gradually you can cease your visits — "

"I understand, senorita. Yet that leaves me in
bad case. I have asked your father for permission
to woo you, and if I go to wooing another girl now,
I will have him about my ears in just anger. And
if I do not woo another girl, I shall have my own
father upbraiding me! It is a sorry state!"

*^ Perhaps it will not be for long, senorj'

'*Ha! I have it! "What does a man do when he
is disappointed in love? He mopes, he pulls a long
face, he refuses to partake of the actions and ex-
citements of the times !

*' Senorita, you have saved me in a way. I shall

AN UNDERSTANDING 199

languish because you do not return my love. Then
men ^\t.11 think they know the reason when I dream
in the sun and meditate instead of riding and fight-
ing like a fool ! I shall be allowed to go my way in
peace, and there shall be a romantic glamour cast
about me. An excellent thought!"

'^Senor, you are incorrigible!" the Senorita Lo-
lita exclaimed, laughing.

Don Carlos and Doha Catalina heard that laugh,
looked around, and then exchanged quick glances.
Don Diego Vega was getting along famously with
the senorita, they thought.

Then Don Diego continued the deception by play-
ing his guitar and singing a verse of a song that
had to do with bright eyes and love. Don Carlos
and his wife glanced at each other again, this time
in apprehension, and wished that he would stop, for
the scion of the Vegas had many superiors as musi-
cian and vocalist, and they feared that he might
lose what ground he had gained in the senorita's
estimation.

But if Lolita thought little of the cahallero's sing-
ing, she said nothing to that effect, and she did not
act displeased. There was some more conversation;
and just before the siesta hour Don Diego bade them
huenas dias and rode away in his gorgeous carriage.
From the turn in the driveway, he waved back at
them.

CHAPTER XXVn

OEDEKS FOB AEEEST

Captaiit Ram6x's courier, sent north with the let-
ter for the governor, had dreams of gay times in
San Francisco de Asis before returning to his pre-
sidio at Reina de Los Angeles. He knew a certain
senorita there whose beauty caused his heart to
burn.

So he rode like a fiend after leaving his coman-
dante's office, changed mounts at San Fernando and
at a hacienda along the way, and galloped into Santa
Barbara a certain evening just at dusk, with the
intention of changing horses again, getting meat
and bread and wine at the presidio, and rushing
on his way.

And at Santa Barbara his hopes of basking in
the senorita's smiles at San Francisco de Asis were
cruelly shattered. For before the door of the pre-
sidio there was a gorgeous carriage that made Don
Diego's appear like a carreta, and a score of horses
were tethered there, and more troopers than were
stationed at Santa Barbara regnilarly moved about
the highway, laughing and jesting with one another.

The governor was in Santa Barbara!

His excellency had left San Francisco de Asis
some days before on a trip of inspection, and in-
tended to go as far south as San Diego de Alcala,

200

OEDERS FOR ARREST 201

strengtlieiiing his political fences, rewarding his
friends, and awarding punishment to his enemies.

He had reached Santa Barbara an hour before,
and was listening to the report of the comandante
there, after which he intended remaining during the
night with a friend. His troopers were to be given
quarters at the presidio ^ of course, and the journey
was to continue on the morrow.

Captain Ramon's courier had been told that the
letter he carried was of the utmost importance, and
so he hurried to the office of the comanda/nte and
entered it like a man of rank.

^'I come from Captain Ramon, comandante at
Reina de Los Angeles, with a letter of importance
for his excellency!" he reported, standing stiffly
at salute.

The governor grunted and took the letter, and
the comandante motioned for the courier to with-
draw. His excellency read the letter with speed,
and when he had finished there was an unholy gleam
in his eyes, and he twirled his mustache with every
evidence of keen satisfaction. And then he read
the letter again, and frowned.

He liked the thought that he could crush Don
Carlos Pulido more, but he disliked to think that
Senor Zorro, the man who had affronted him, was
still at liberty. He got up and paced the floor for
a time, and then whirled upon the comandante,

''1 shall leave for the south at sunrise," he said.
*^My presence is urgently needed at Reina de Los
Angeles. You will attend to things. Tell that cour-

202 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

ier he shall ride back with my escort. I go now to
the house of my friend.''

And so, in the morning, the governor started
south, his escort of twenty picked troopers surround-
ing him, the courier in their midst. He traveled
s^dftly, and on a certain day at mid-morning en-
tered the plaza of Reina de Los Angeles unheralded.
It was the same morning that Don Diego rode to
the Pulido hacienda in his carriage, taking his
guitar with him.

The cavalcade stopped before the tavern, and the
fat landlord almost suffered an apoplexy because
he had not been warned of the governor's coming,
and was afraid he would enter the inn and find it
in a dirty state.

But the governor made no effort to leave his car-
riage and enter the tavern. He was glancing around
the square, observing many things. He never felt
secure concerning the men of rank in this pueblo;
he felt that he did not have the proper grip on them.

Now he watched carefully as news of his arrival
was spread and certain cahalleros hurried to the
plaza to greet him and make him welcome. He
noted those who appeared to be sincere, observed
those who were in no particular haste to salute him,
and noticed that several were absent.

Business must receive his first attention, he told
them, and he must hasten up to the presidio. After
that he would gladly be the guest of any of them.
He accepted an invitation, and ordered his driver
to proceed. He was remembering Captain Ramon's

OEDERS FOR ARREST 203

letter, and he had not seen Don Diego Vega in the
plaza.

Sergeant Gonzales and his men were away pur-
suing Senor Zorro, of course, and so Captain Ramon
himself was awaiting his excellency at the presidio
entrance, and saluted him gravely, and bowed low
before him, and ordered the commander of the es-
cort to take charge of the place and police it, sta-
tioning guards in honor of the governor.

He led his excellency to the private office, and the
governor sat down.

**What is the latest news!" he asked.

**My men are on the trail, excellency. But, as I
wrote, this pest of a Senor Zorro has friends — a
legion of them, I take it. My sergeant has reported
that twice he found him with a band of followers. "^

**They must be broken up, killed off!'' the gov-
ernor cried. *^A man of that sort always can get
followers, and yet more followers, until he will be sa
strong that he can cause us serious trouble. Has
he committed any further atrocities?"

**He has, excellency. Yesterday a fray from San
Gabriel was whipped for swindling. Senor Zorro
caught the witnesses against him on the highroad,
and whipped them almost to death. And then he
rode into the pueblo just at dusk, and had the
magistrado whipped.

^^My soldiers were away looking for him at the
time. It appears that this Senor Zorro knows the
movements of my force, and always strikes where
the troopers are not."

204 THE l^IAEK OF ZOEEO

^^Tlien spies are gi^^ng him warnings f

* ^It appears so, excellency. Last night some thirty
young cahalleros rode after him, but did not find
track of the scoundrel. They returned this morn-
ing."

*^Was Don Diego Vega with them I"

*^He did not ride out with them, but he returned
with them. It seems that they picked him up at his
father's hacienda. You perhaps guessed that I
meant the Vegas in my letter. I am convinced now,
your excellency, that my suspicions in that quarter
were unjust. This Seiior Zorro even invaded Don
Diego's house one night while Don Diego was
away. ' '

*^How is this?"

*'But Don Carlos Pulido and his fainilv were
there."

*^Ha ! In Don Diego's house? TVTiat is the mean-
ing of that!"

^'It is amusing," said Captain Eamon, laughing
lightly. **I have heard that Don Alejandro ordered
Don Diego to get him a wife. The young man is
not the sort to woo women. He is lifeless."

*^I know the man. Proceed!"

**So he rides straightway to the hacienda of Don
Carlos and asks permission to pay his addresses
to Don Carlos 's only daughter. Senor Zorro was
abroad, and Don Diego, going to his own hacienda
on business, asked Don Carlos to come to the pueblo
with his family, where it would be safer, and occupy

ORDEES FOR ARREST 205

his house until he returned. The Pulidos could not
refuse, of course. And Senor Zorro, it appears,
followed them.''

^'Ha! Goon!"

**It is laughable that Don Diego fetched them here
to escape Senor Zorro 's wrath, when, in reality, they
are hand in glove with the highwayman. Remember,
this Senor Zorro had been at the Pulido hacienda.
We got word from a native, and almost caught him
there. He had been eating a meal. He was hiding
in a closet, and while I was alone there and my men
searching the trails, he came from the closet, ran
me through the shoulder from behind, and escaped."

^^The low scoundrel!" the governor exclaimed.
**But do you think there will be a marriage between
Don Diego and the Senorita Pulido?"

*^I imagine there need be no worry in that regard,
excellency. I am of the opinion that Don Diego's
father put a flea in his ear. He probably called
Don Diego's attention to the fact that Don Carlos
does not stand very high with your excellency, and
that there are daughters of other men who do.

**At any rate, the Pulidos returned to their haci-
enda after Don Diego's return. Don Diego called
upon me here at the presidio, and appeared to be
anxious that I would not think him a man of
treason."

''I am glad to hear it. The Vegas are powerful.
They never have been my warm friends, yet never
have they raised hands against me, so I cannot com-

206 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

plain. It is good sense to keep them friendly, if
that be possible. But these Pulidos — '*

*^Even the senorita appears to be giving aid to
this highwayman/' Captain Ramon said. *^She
boasted to me of what she called his courage. She
sneered at the soldiers.

**Don Carlos Pulido and some of the frailes are
protecting the man, giving him food and drink, hid-
ing him, sending him news of the troopers' where-
abouts. The Pulidos are hindering our efforts to
capture the rogue. I would have taken steps, but
I thought it best to inform you and await your de-
cision. ' '

*' There can be but one decision in such a case,"
said the governor loftily. **No matter how good
a man's blood may be, or what his rank, he cannot
"be allowed to commit treason without suffering the
consequences. I had thought that Don Carlos had
learned his lesson, but it appears that he has not.
Are any of your men in the presidio?^'

*^Some who are ill, excellency."

*^That courier of yours returned mth my escort.
Does he know the country well hereabouts?"

*^ Certainly, excellency. He has been stationed
here for some little time."

**Then he can act as guide. Send half my escort
at once to the hacienda of Don Carlos Pulido. Have
them arrest the don and fetch him to carcel, and
incarcerate him there. That will be a blow to his
Mgh blood! I have had quite enough of these
Pulidos."

ORDEKS FOE AEEEST 207

^^And the haughty dona, who sneered at me, and
the proud senorita who scorned the troopers!"

^'Ha! It is a good thought! It wiU teach a lesson
to aU in this locality. Have them fetched to carcel
and incarcerated also!'' the governor said.

CHAPTER XXVm

THE OUTEAGE

Don Diego's carriage had just pulled up before
Ms house when a squad of troopers went by it in
a cloud of dust. He did not recognize any of them
for men he had seen about the tavern.

*'Ha! There are new soldiers on the trail of
Senor ZorroF' he asked a man standing near.

*^They are a part of the escort of the governor,
cahallero/^

**The governor is here?"

*^He arrived but a short time ago, cahallero, and
has gone to the presidio/^

^^1 suppose they must have fresh news of this
highwayman to send them riding furiously through
dust and sun like that. He appears to be an elusive
rascal. By the saints! Had I been here when the
governor arrived, no doubt he would have put up
at my house. Now some other cahallero will have
the honor of entertaining him. It is much to be
regretted. ' '

And then Don Diego went into the house, and
the man who had heard him speak did not know
whether to doubt the sincerity of that last remark.

Led by the courier, who knew the way, the squad
of troopers galloped swiftly along the highroad, and
presently turned up the trail toward Don Carlos 's

208

THE OUTRAGE 209

house. They Tvent at this business as they would
have gone about capturing a desperado. As they
struck the driveway, they scattered to left and right,
tearing up Doha Catalina's flower-beds and sending
chickens squawking out of the way, and so sur-
rounded the house in almost an instant of time.

Don Carlos had been sitting on the veranda in
his accustomed place, half in a doze, and he did not
notice the advance of the troopers until he heard the
beating of their horses' hoofs. He got to his feet
in alarm, wondering whether Sehor Zorro was in the
vicinity again and the soldiers after him.

Three dismounted in a cloud of dust before the
steps, and the sergeant who commanded them made
his way fonvard, slapping the dust from his uni-
form.

^^You are Don Carlos Pulido!'' he asked in a loud
voice.

**I have that honor, senor.^'

*^I have order to place you under military arrest."

** Arrest!" Don Carlos cried. *^Who gave you
such orders!"

*^His excellency, the governor. He now is in
Eeina de Los Angeles, senor.^^

**And the charge?"

^* Treason, and aiding the enemies of the state!"

^* Preposterous!" Don Carlos cried. *'I am ac-
cused of treason, when, though the victim of oppres-
sion, I have withheld my hand against those in
iDOwer? What are the particulars of the charges?"

** You will have to ask the magistrado that, senor.

210 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

I know nothing of the matter except that I am to
arrest you."

**You wish me to accompany youT'

*^I demand it, senor/'

**I am a man of blood, a cabollero — "

'*I have my orders!''

**So I cannot be trusted to appear at my place
of trial? But perhaps the hearing is to be held
immediately. So much the better, for all the quicker
can I clear myself. We go to the presidio f

'*I go to the presidio when this work is done.
You go to car eel/' the sergeant said.

*^To car eel?" Don Carlos screeched. ^^You would
dare? You would throw a cahallero into the filthy
jail? You would place him where they keep insub-
ordinate natives and common felons?"

^*I have my orders, senor. You will prepare to
accompany us at once ! ' '

*'I must give my superintendent instructions re-
garding the management of the hacienda,' '

**I'll go along with you, senor.''

Don Carlos 's face flamed purple. His hands
clenched as he regarded the sergeant.

*^Am I to be insulted with every word?" he cried.
**Do you think I would run away like a criminal?"

*^I have my orders, senor!" the sergeant said.

**At least, I may break this news to my mfe and
daughter without an outsider being at my shoul-
der?"

^^Your wife is Dona Catalina Pulido?"

** Certainly."

THE OUTRAGE 211

*'I am ordered to arrest her also, senor."

*'Sc"um!" Don Carlos cried. ^^You would put
hands on a lady? You would remove her from her
house?''

**It is my orders. She, too, is charged with
treason and with aiding the enemies of the state.''

'^By the saints! It is too much! I shall fight
against you and your men as long as there is breath
in my body!"

'^And that will not be for long, Don Carlos, if
you attempt to give battle. I am but carrying out
my orders."

'*My beloved wife placed under arrest like a na-
tive wench ! And on such a charge I What are you
to do with her, sergeant!"

**She goes to carcelf

^*My wife in that foul place? Is there no justice
in the land? She is a tender lady of noble blood — "

'^Enough of this, senor! My orders are my or-
ders, and I carry them out as instructed. I am a
soldier, and I obey."

Now Dona Catalina came running to the veranda,
for she had been listening to the conversation just
inside the door. Her face was white, but there was
a look of pride in it. She feared Don Carlos might
make an attack on the soldier, and she feared he
would be wounded or slain if he did, and knew that
at least it could only double the charge held against
him.

*'You have heard?" Don Carlos asked.

^^I have heard, my husband. It is but more per-

212 THE MAEK OF ZOKEO

secution. I am too proud to argue the point with
these common soldiers, who are but doing as they
have been commanded. A Pulido can be a Puhdo,
my husband, even in a foul carcel/'

' * But the shame of it ! ' ^ Don Carlos cried. ' ' What
does it all mean? Where will it end! And our
daughter will be here alone with the servants. We
have no relatives, no friends — '^

^^Your daughter is Senorita Lolita Pulido?" the
sergeant asked. ^^Then do not grieve, senor, for
you will not be separated. I have an order for the
arrest of your daughter, also."

^^The charge?"

*^The same, senor,"

**And you would take her — "

**To carcel!''

*^An innocent, high-bom, gentle girl?"

**My orders, senor j" said the sergeant.

'*May the saints blast the man who issued them!"
Don Carlos cried. *'They have taken my wealth
and lands. They have heaped shame upon me and
mine. But, thank the saints, they cannot break our
pride ! ' '

And then Don Carlos 's head went erect, and his
eyes flashed, and he took his wife by the arm and
turned about to enter the house, with the sergeant
at his heels. He broke the news to the Senorita
Lolita, who stood as if stricken dumb for an instant,
and then burst into a torrent of tears. And then
the pride of the Pulidos came to her, and she dried
her eyes, and curled her pretty lips with scorn at

THE OUTRAGE 213

the big sergeant, and pulled aside her skirts when
he stepped near.

Servants brought the carreta before the door, and
Don Carlos and his wife and daughter got into it,
and the journey of shame to the pueblo began.

Their hearts might be bursting with grief, but not
one of the Pulidos showed it. Their heads were
held high, they looked straight ahead, they pre-
tended not to hear the low taunts of the soldiers.

They passed others, who were crowded off the
road by the troopers, and who looked with wonder
at those in the carreta, but they did not speak.
Some watched in sorrow, and some gTinned at their
plight, according to whether those who passed were
of the governor's party or of the honest folk who
abhorred injustice.

And so, finally, they came to the edge of Reina
de Los Angeles, and there they met fresh insult.
For his excellency had determined that the Pulidos
should be humbled to the dust; and he had sent
some of his troopers to spread news of what was
being done, and to give coins to natives and peons
if they would jeer the prisoners when they arrived.
For the governor wished to teach a lesson that would
prevent other noble families from turning against
him, and wished it to appear that the Pulidos were
hated by all classes alike.

At the edge of the plaza they were met by the
mob. There were cruel jeers and jests, some of
which no innocent sefiorita should have heard. Don
Carlos 's face was red with wrath, and there were

214 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

tears in Doiia Catalina's eyes, and Seiiorita Lolita's
lips were trembling, but they gave no other sign that
they heard.

The drive around the plaza to the car eel was made
slow purposely. At the door of the inn there was a
throng of rascals who had been drinking wine at
the expense of the governor, and these added to
the din.

One man threw mud, and it splashed on Don
Carlos 's breast, but he refused to notice it. He had
one arm around his wife, the other around his daugh-
ter, as if to give them what j^rotection he could,
and he was looking straight ahead.

There were some men of blood who witnessed the
scene, yet took no part in the tumult. Some of them
were as old as Don Carlos, and this thing brought
to their hearts fresh, yet passive, hatred of the gov-
ernor.

And some were young, with the blood running hot
in their veins, and they looked upon the suffering
face of Doiia Catalina and imagined her their own
mother, and upon the lovely face of the senorita
and imagined her their sister or betrothed.

And some of these men glanced at one another fur-
tively, and though they did not speak they were
wondering the same thing — whether Seiior Zorro
would hear of this, and whether he would send word
around for the members of the new league to gather.

The earreta stopped before the careel finally, the
mob of jeering natives and peons surrounding it.
The soldiers made some pretense of holding them

THE OUTRAGE 215

back, and the sergeant dismounted and forced Don
Carlos and his wife and daughter to step to the
ground.

Uncouth and intoxicated men jostled them as they
walked up the steps to the door. More mud was
thrown, and some of it spattered upon Dona Cata-
lina's gown. But if the mob expected an outburst
on the part of the aged caballero, it was disap-
pointed. Don Carlos held his head high, ignoring
those who were striving to torment him, and so
led his ladies to the door.

The sergeant beat against it with the heavy hilt
of his sword. An aperture was opened, and in it
appeared the evil, grinning face of the jailer.

**What have we hereT' he demanded.

** Three prisoners charged with treason, '^ the ser-
geant replied.

The door was thrown open. There came a last
burst of jeers from the mob; and then the prisoners
were inside, and the door had been closed and bolted
again.

The jailer led the way along an evil-smelling hall
and threw open another door.

**In with you!" he directed.

The three prisoners were thrust inside, and this
door was closed and barred. They blinked their
eyes in the semigloom. Gradually they made out
two windows, some benches, some human derelicts
sprawled against the walls.

They had not even been given the courtesy of a
clean, private room. Don Carlos and his wife and

216 THE MAEK OF ZORRO

daughter had been thrust in with the scum of thef
pueblo, with drunkards and thieves and dishonored
women and insulting natives.

They sat down on a bench in one corner of the
room, as far from the others as possible. And
then Dona Catalina and her daughter gave way to
tears, and tears streamed down the face of the aged
don as he tried to comfort them.

**I would to the saints that Don Diego Vega were
only my son-in-law now ! ' ' the don breathed.

His daughter pressed his arm.

^'Perhaps — ^my father — a friend will come," she
whispered. ** Perhaps the evil man who caused this
suffering will be punished!"

For it seemed to the senorita that a vision of
Senor Zorro had appeared before her ; and she had
great faith in the man to whom she had given her
love.

CHAPTER XXIX

DOIT DIEGO FEELS ILL

Oke hour after Don Carlos Pulido and his ladies
had been incarcerated in the carcel, Don Diego Vega^
dressed most fastidionsly, made his way slowly on.
foot up the slope to the presidio to make his call
on his excellency, the governor.

He walked vdtli swinging stride, gazing both to
dght and left as if at the hills in the distance, and
;)nce he stopped to observe a blossom that bloomed
s)eside the path. His rapier was at his side, his most
fashionable one with its jeweled hilt, and in his right
hand he carried a handkerchief of flimsy lace, which
he wafted this way and that like a dandy, and now
and then touched it to the tip of his nose.

He bowed ceremoniously to two or three cahalleros
who passed him, but spoke to none beyond the nec-
essary words of greeting, and they did not seek
conversation with him. For, remembering that they
had thought Don Diego Vega was courting the
daughter of Don Carlos, they wondered how he
would take the matter of her imprisonment along
with her father and mother. They did not care to
discuss the matter, for their own feelings were high,
and they feared they might be betrayed into utter-
ances that might be termed treasonable.

Don Diego came to the front door of the presidio,

217

218 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

and the sergeant in charge called the soldiers to
attention, gi^T.ng Vega the salute due his station in
life. Don Diego answered it with a wave of his
hand and a smile, and went on to the comandante' s
ofiice, where the governor was receiving such cahaU
leros as cared to call and express their loyalty.

He greeted his excellency mth carefully chosen
words, bowed over his hand, and then took the chair
the governor was kind enough to indicate.

**Don Diego Vega," the governor said, *^I km
doubly glad that you have called upon me to-day, for
in these times a man who holds high office would
know his friends."

*^I should have called sooner, but I was away from
my house at the time you arrived," Don Diego said.
**You contemplate remaining long in Reina de Los
Angeles, excellency!"

*' Until this highwayman, known as Senor Zorro,
is either slain or taken," the governor said.

*^By the saints! Am. I never to hear the last of
that rogue?" Don Diego cried. ^^I have heard of
nothing else for these many days. I go to spend an
evening mth a fray, and in comes a crowd of sol-
diers chasing this Seiior Zorro. I repair to the
hacienda of my father to get me peace and quiet,
and along comes a crowd of cdballeros seeking news
of Senor Zorro.

** These be turbulent times ! A man whose nature
inclines him to music and the poets has no right to
exist in the present age!"

*^It desolates me that you have been annoyed,"

DON DIEGO FEELS ILL 219

the governor said, laughing. '^But I hope to have
the fellow soon, and so pnt an end to that particular
annoyance. Captain Eamon has sent for his big
sergeant and his troopers to return. I brought an
escort of twenty. And so we have ample men to
mn down this Curse of Capistrano when next he
makes his appearance."

*^Let us hope it will end as it should," said Don
Diego.

^'A man in high office has many things with which
to contend," the governor went on. '^Look at what
I was forced to do this day! I am called upon to
put in prison a man of good blood, and his lady wife
and tender daughter. But the state must be pro-
tected."

**I suppose you mean Don Carlos Pulido and his
family ! ' '

*'I do, cahaUero/'

**Now that it is called to my mind again, I must
say a few words regarding that," Don Diego said,
*^I am not sure that my honor is not involved."

*'Why, cahallerOf how can that be!"

*^My father has ordered that I get me a wife and
set up my establishment properly. Some days ago
I requested of Don Carlos Pulido permission to pay
my addresses to his daughter."

^^Ha! I understand! But you are not the be-
trothed of the young lady!"

**Not yet, excellency."

**Then your honor is not involved, Don Diego, that
I can see."

220 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO '

^'But I liave been paying court to her."

*'You may thank the saints that it has gone no
further, Don Diego. Think how it would look if
you were allied with this family now ! As for get-
ting you a wife — come north with me to San Fran-
cisco de Asis, cahallero, where the senoritas are far
more lovely than here in your southland.

*^Look over those of good blood, and let me know
your preference, and I'll guarantee that the lady
will listen to your suit and accept your hand and
name. And I can guarantee, also, that she will be
of a loyal family with which it will be no shame to
make a contract. We shall get you a wife of the
proper sort, cahallero,' '

^^If you will pardon me, is it not taking stern
measures to have Don Carlos and his ladies thrown
into the car eel f Don Diego asked, flicking dust
from his sleeve.

*^I find it necessary, senor,"

*^Do you think it will add to your popularity, ex-
cellency T'

*' Whether it does or not, the state must be
served."

^'Men of good blood hate to see such a thing, and
there may be murmurings," Don Diego warned. ^*I
should hate to see your excellency make a wrong
step at this juncture."

**What would you have me do?" the governor
asked.

^' Place Don Carlos and the ladies under arrest,
if you will, but do not incarcerate them. It is un-

DON DIEGO FEELS ILL 221

necessary; they will not run away. Bring them to
trial as gentle folk should be brought to trial."

**You are bold, cahallero/^

**By the saints, am I talking too much!"

**It were better to leave these matters to the few
of us who are trusted with attention to them," the
governor said. *^I can understand, of course, how
it irks a man of good blood to see a don thrown into
a carcely and to see his ladies treated likewise, but
in such a case as this — "

*^I have not heard the nature of the case," Don
Diego said.

*^Ha! Perhaps you may change your mind when
you learn it. You have been speaking of this Senor
Zorro. What if I tell you that the highwayman is
being shielded and protected and fed by Don Carlos
Pulido!"

'^That is astonishing!"

**And that the Dona Catalina is a party to the
treason? And that the lovely senorita has seen fit
to talk treasonably and dip her pretty hands into a
conspiracy against the state!"

*'This is past belief!" Don Diego cried.

*'Some nights ago Senor Zorro was at the Pulido
hacienda. Warning was fetched the comandante by
a native who is loyal. Don Carlos aided the bandit
in tricking the soldiers, hid him in a closet, and
when Captain Eamon was there alone, this highway-
man stepped from the closet and attacked him
treacherously and wounded him."

**By the saints!"

222 THE MAEK OF ZOERO

*^And wMle you were gone and the Pulidos were
your house guests, senor, Senor Zorro was in your
house, speaking to the senorita, when the comandante
walked in upon them. And the senorita grasped
Captain Ramon by the arm and annoyed him until
this Senor Zorro had made good his escape!"

^*It is past comprehension!'' Don Diego ex-
claimed.

* ' Captain Ramon has placed before me a hundred
such items of suspicion. Can you wonder now that
I had them placed in car eel? Did I merely have
them put under arrest, this Senor Zorro would com-
bine forces with them and aid them to escape.''

*^And your intentions, excellency?"

*^I shall keep them in car eel while my troopers
run down this highwayman. I shall force him to
confess and implicate them — and then they shall
have a trial."

** These turbulent times!" Don Diego complained.

**As a loyal man — and I hope an admirer of mine
• — ^you should hope to see foes of the state con-
founded. ' '

**I do ! Most sincerely do I! All real foes of the
state should receive punishment."

*^I am joyed to hear you say that, cahallerof the
governor cried, and he reached across the table and
grasped Don Diego fervently by the hand.

There was some more talk that amounted to noth-
ing, and then Don Diego took his leave, for there
were other men waiting to see the governor. After

DON DIEGO FEELS ILL 223

he had left the office the governor looked across at
Captain Eamon and smiled.

*'You are right, comandante/' he said. ^'Such a
man could not be a traitor. It T\^onld tire him too
much to think treasonable thoughts. What a man!
He must be enough to drive that old fire-eater of a
father of his insane !''

Don Diego made his way slowly down the hill,
greeting those he passed, and stopping again to re-
gard the little flowers that blossomed by the wayside.
At the corner of the plaza he met a young cahallero
who was glad to caU him friend, one of the small
band of men who had spent the night at Don Ale-
jandro's hacienda,

*^Ha! Don Diego, a fair day to you!" he cried.
And then he lowered his voice and stepped nearer :
**IIas, by any chance, the man we call leader of
our league of avengers, sent you a message this
day?"

**By the bright blue sky — ^no!" Don Diego said.
*^Why should the man?"

**This Pulido business. It seems an outrage.
Some of us have been wondering whether our leader
does not intend to take a hand in it. We have been
anticipating a message."

''By the saints! Oh, I trust not!" Don Diego
said. ''I could not endure an adventure of any sort
to-night. I — er — my head aches, and I fear I am
going to have a fever. I shall have to see an apoth-
ecary about it. There are shiverings up and down

224 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

my spine, also. Is not that a symptom? During the
siesta hour I was bothered with a pain in my left
leg just above the knee. It must be the weather!"
*'Let us hope that it will not result seriously,"
laughed his friend, and hurried on across the plaza.

CHAPTER XXX

THE SIGX OF THE FOX

An hour after dusk that night a native sought
out one of the caballeros with the intelligence that
a gentleman wished to speak to him immediately,
and that this gentleman was evidently wealthy since
he had given the native a coin for carrying the mes-
sage, when he might just as well have given nothing
more than a cuff alongside the head; also that the
mysterious gentleman would be waiting along the
path that ran toward the San Gabriel trail, and to
be sure that the caballero would come he had bade
the native say that there was a fox in the neighbor-
hood.

* * A fox ! Zorro — fox ! ' ' the caballero thought, and
then he ruined the native forever by giving him an-
other coin.

He went to the rendezvous immediately, and there
he found Sehor Zorro sitting his big horse, his face
masked, the cloak wrapped around his body.

^'You will pass the word, caballero/^ Senor Zorro
said. ^*I would have all men who are loyal and
wish to do so, meet at midnight in the little valley
beyond the hill. You know the place! Sif I shall
be waiting.''

Then Senor Zorro wheeled his horse and dashed
away in the darkness, and the caballero went back

225

226 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

to the pueblo and passed the word to those men he
knew could be depended upon, and urged upon them
that they pass it to others of the league. One went
to Don Diego's house, but was told by the despensero
that Don Diego had complained of a fever and had
retired to his chamber, and had left word that he
would flay alive any servant who dared enter the
room unless he called.

Near the hour of midnight the cahalleros began
slipping from the pueblo one at a time, each upon
the back of his best horse, and each armed with
sword and pistol. Each man had a mask that could
be put over his features instantly, for that had been
decided upon at Don Alejandro's hacienda, among
other things.

The pueblo was in darkness, save that there were
lights in the tavern, where some of his excellency's
escort made merry with the local troopers. For
Sergeant Pedro Gonzales had returned with his men
just before nightfall, glad to be back from a fruit-
less chase, and hoping that the next scent would be
warmer.

Those in the tavern had gone down the hill from
the presidio, some leaving their horses there with-
out saddles or bridles on, and they had no thought
of an encounter with Sehor Zorro this night. The
fat landlord was kept busy, for the soldiers from
the north had coins in their purses and were willing
to spend them. Sergeant Gonzales, holding the at-
tention of the company as usual, was detailing at
length what he would do to this Senor Zorro if the

THE SIGN OF THE FOX 227

saints were kind enough to let them meet and grant
him his blade in his hand.

There were lights in the big lounging-room of the
presidio, too, for few of the soldiers had retired.
And there were lights in the house where his ex-
cellency was a gTiest, but the remainder of the puehlo
was in darkness, and the people slept.

In the carcel there was no light at all except one
candle burning in the office, where a sleepy man was
on guard. The jailer was in his bed. Prisoners
moaned on the hard benches in the prison-room,
Don Carlos Pulido stood before a window, looking
up at the stars ; and his wife and daughter huddled
on a bench beside him, unable to sleep in such sur-
roundings.

The cahalleros found Senor Zorro waiting for
them as he had said he would be, but he remained
aloof, speaking scarcely a word, until all were pres-
ent.

**Are aU here!" he asked then.

'*A11 except Don Diego Vega," one replied. ^'He
is ill with a fever, senor J ^

And all the cahalleros chuckled, for they had an
idea the fever was caused by cowardice.

**I take it that you know something of what is in
my mind," Senor Zorro said. ^^We know what has
happened to Don Carlos Pulido and the ladies of
his family. "We know they are innocent of any
treason; and were they not, they should not have
been taken to carcel and incarcerated with common
felons and drunkards.

228 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

*^ Think of those gentle ladies in such surround-
ings! Think of it — ^because Don Carlos has the ill
will of the governor ! It is the sense of the league
that something be done in this matter? If it is not,
then will I do something by myself!"

* 'Rescue them!" a caballero said; and the others
growled their approval. Here was a chance for risk
and adventure and an opportunity to do a good
deed.

''"We must enter the pueblo quietly," Senor Zorro
said. ''There is no moon, and we will not be ob-
served if we use caution. We shall approach the
car eel from the south. Each man will have his task
to do.

"Some will surround the building to give notice
if any approach it. Others must be ready to beat
off the soldiers, if they respond to an alarm. Others
will effect an entrance to the carcel with me, and
rescue the prisoners."

"It is an excellent plan," one said.

"That is but a small part of it. Don Carlos is a
proud man, and if given time for reflection may re-
fuse to be rescued. We cannot allow that. Certain
ones will seize him and take him from the place.
Others will attend to the Dona Catalina. I will
undertake to care for the senorita. Now — we have
them free! And then what!"

He heard murmurs, but no distinct reply, and so
he continued to outline the plan.

"All will ride to the highway just below this

THE SIGN OF THE FOX 229

place," he said. ^^At that point we shall scatter.
Those who have the Doha Catalina in charge mil
hasten with her to the hacienda of Don Alejandro
Vega, where she can be hidden if necessary, and
where the governor's soldiers will hesitate before
entering and seizing her.

** Those who have Don Carlos in charge will take
the road to Pala, and at a certain point some ten
miles from this pueblo they will be met by two
natives of understanding, who will give the sign
of the fox. The natives will take Don Carlos in
charge and care for him.

^^When these things are done, each cdballero will
ride to his home quietly and alone, telling what story
pleases him, and using great caution. I shall have
conducted the senorita to a safe place by that time.
She shall be given into the keeping of old Fray
Felipe, a man we can trust, and he will hide her
if he must. Then we will watch to see what the
governor does.''

*^What can he do?" a cahallero asked. **Have
them searched for, of course."

*^We must await developments," Senor Zorro
said. **Are all now ready?"

They assured him that they were, and so he
named the men for each task, and then they left
the little valley and rode slowly and cautiously
around the little town, and approached it from the
south.

They heard the soldiers shouting and singing in

230 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

the tavern, saw the lights in the presidio, and crept
toward the car eel quietly, riding two by two.

In a short time it had been surrounded by qniet,
determined men; and then Senor Zorro and four
others dismounted and went to the door of the build-
ing.

CHAPTER XXXI

THE EESCUE

Sek'oe Zoeeo knocked upon it with the hilt of his
sword. They heard a man gasp inside, presently
heard his steps on the stone flooring, and after a
little time light showed through the cracks, and the
aperture was opened, and the sleepy face of the
guard appeared.

*^What is wanted?" he asked.

Seiior Zorro thrust the muzzle of his pistol
through the aperture and into the man's face, and
in such fashion that the little door could not be
closed.

**Open, if you value your life! Open — and make
not the slightest sound!'' Sehor Zorro commanded.

'* What— what is this?"

^^Senor Zorro is talking to you!"

**By the saints — "

**Open, fool, or you die instantly!"

**I — I'll open the door. Do not shoot, good Senor
Zorro ! I am only a poor guard and not a fighting
man! I pray you do not shoot!"

**Open quickly!"

**As soon as I can fit key to lock, good Senor
Zorro!"

They heard him rattling the keys; presently one

231

232 THE MAEK OF ZORRO

was turned in the lock, and the heavy door was
thrown open.

Senor Zorro and his four companions rushed in-
side, and slammed and fastened the door again.
The guard found the muzzle of a pistol pressed ^r?
against the side of his head, and would have knelt
before these five masked and terrible men, only
one of them caught him by the hair and held him up. ;

*^ Where sleeps the keeper of this infernal holeT' ^S
Senor Zorro demanded.

**In yonder room, senor!*'

**And where have you put Don Carlos Pulido and
Ms ladies?"

'*In the common prison-room, senor!"

Senor Zorro motioned to the others, strode across
the room, and threw open the door to the jailer's
chamber. The man already was sitting up in bed,
having heard the sounds in the other room, and he
blinked in fright when he beheld the highwayman
by the light of the candle.

*^Do not make a move, senor!'' Zorro warned.
^^One screech, and you are a dead man! Senor
Zorro confronts you!''

^^May the saints preserve me — "

** Where are the keys to the prison rooms?"

**0n — on that table, senor,"

Senor Zorro picked them up, and then whirled
upon the jailer again and rushed toward him.

**Lie down!" he commanded. **0n your face,
scoundrel ! ' '

Senor Zorro tore strips from a blanket, and bound

THE RESCUE 233

the jailer's hands and feet, and made a gag which
he affixed. *

^'To escape death," he said, then, *'it is necessary
for yon to remain exactly as you are now, without
making a sound, for some time after we have left
the car eel. I shall leave it to your own judgment
to decide the length of time.''

Then he hurried back into the main office, beck-
oned the others, and led the way down the evil-smell-
ing hall.

^^ Which door?" he asked of the guard.

**The second one, senor.'^

They hurried to it, and Senor Zorro unlocked it
and threw it open. He forced the guard to hold a
candle high above his head.

A gasp of pity came from beneath the highway-
man's mask. He saw the aged don standing by the
window, saw the two women crouched on the bench,
saw the vHe companions they had in this miserable
place.

^*Now may Heaven forgive the governor!" he
cried.

Senorita Lolita looked up in alarm, and then gave
a glad cry. Don Carlos whirled at the highwayman's
words.

** Senor Zorro!" he gasped.

*'The same, Don Carlos! I have come with some
friends to rescue you!"

*'I cannot allow it, senor, I shall not run away
from what is in store for me. And it would avail
me little to have you do the rescuing. I am accused

234 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

now of harboring you, I understand. How will it
look, then, if you effect my escaped

*^ There is no time for arg-ument,'' Senor Zorro
said. ^^I am not alone in this, but have twenty-six
men with me. And a man of your blood, and gentle
ladies such as those of your family, shall not spend
an entire night in this miserable hole if we can pre-
vent it. Cahalleros!^'

The last word was one of command. Two of the
cahalleros threw themselves upon Don Carlos, sub-
dued him quickly, and half carried him into the hall
and along it toward the office. Two others grasped
the Dona Catalina by the arms, as gently as they
could, and so carried her along.

Seiior Zorro bowed before the senoritaj and ex-
tended a hand, which she clasped gladly.

^^You must trust me, senorita/' he said.

**To love is to trust, senor!''

*'A11 things have been arranged. Ask no ques-
tions, but do as I bid. Come!''

He threw an arm around her, and so led her from
the prison-room, leaving the door open behind him.
If some of the miserable wretches there could win
through and out of the building, Senor Zorro had
no wish to prevent them. More than half of them,
he judged, were there because of prejudice or injus-
tice.

Don Carlos was causing an unearthly clamor,
shouting that he refused to be rescued, and that he
would stay and face the governor at the trial, and

THE EESCUE 235

show the blood that was in him. Dona Catalina was
whimpering a bit because of fright, but made no
resistance.

They reached the office, and Senor Zorro ordered
the guard to a corner of it, with instructions to re-
main there quietly for some time after they had
gone. And then one of the caballeros threw open
the outside door.

There was a tumult outside at that moment. Two
soldiers had approached with a fellow caught steal-
ing at the tavern, and the caballeros had stopped
them. One glance at the masked faces had been
enough to tell the troopers that here was something
wrong.

A soldier fired a pistol, and a cahallero answered
the fire, neither hitting the mark. But the shooting
was enough to attract the attention of those in the
tavern, and also of the guards at the presidio.

Troopers at the presidio were awakened imme-
diately, and took the places of the g-uards while the
latter mounted and spurred down the hill to ascer-
tain the cause of the sudden tumult at that hour
of the night. Sergeant Pedro Gonzales and others
hurried from the tavern. Senor Zorro and his com-
panions found themselves facing a resistance when
they least expected it.

The jailer had gathered courage enough to work
himself free of gag and bonds, and he shrieked
through a window of his chamber that prisoners
were being rescued by Senor Zorro. His shriek was

236 THE ]\IAEK OF ZOEEO

understood by Sergeant Gonzales, who screeched for
his men to follow him and earn a part of his ex-
cellency's reward.

But the cahalleros had their three rescued pris-
oners on horseback, and they spurred through the
gathering throng and so dashed across the plaza and
toward the highway.

Shots flew about them, but no man was hit. Don
Carlos Puhdo was still screaming that he refused to
be rescued. Dona Catalina had fainted, for which
the caballero who had her in charge was grateful,
since he could give more attention to his horse and
weapons.

Seiior Zorro rode wildly, with the Senorita Lolita
in the saddle before him. He spurred his magnifi-
cent horse ahead of all the others, and so led the
way to the highroad. And when he had reached it,
he pulled up his mount and watched the others come
galloping to the spot, to ascertain whether there
had been casualties.

''Carry out your orders, cahalleros!^' he com-
manded, when he saw that all had won through
safely.

And so the band was broken into three detach-
ments. One rushed along the Pala Road with Don
Carlos. Another took the highway that would lead
them to the hacienda of Don Alejandro. Sehor
Zorro, riding without any of his comrades at his
side, galloped toward Fray Felipe's place, the
senorita' s arms clasped tightly about his neck, and
the seTiorita's voice in his ear.

THE RESCUE 237

*'I knew that you would come for me, senor/' she
said. ' ' I knew you were a true man, and would not
see me and my parents remain in that miserable
place."

Senor Zorro did not answer her with words, for
it was not a time for speech with his enemies so
close at his heels, but his arm pressed the senorita
closer to him.

He had reached the crest of the first hill; and
now he stopped the horse to listen for sounds of
pursuit, and to watch the flickering lights far be-
hind.

For there was a multitude of lights in the plaza
now, and in all the houses, for the pueblo had been
aroused. The presidio building was ablaze with
light, and he could hear a trumpet being blown, and
knew that every available trooper would be sent on
the chase.

The sound of galloping horses came to his ears.
The troopers knew in what direction the rescuers
had traveled; and the pursuit would be swift and
relentless, with his excellency on the scene to offer
fabulous rewards and urge on his men with promises
of good posts and promotion.

But" one thing pleased Senor Zorro as his horse
galloped down the dusty highway and the senorita
clung to him and the keen wind cut into his face —
he knew that the pursuit would have to be divided
into three parties.

He pressed the senorita to him again, put spurs
to his horse, and rode furiously through the night.

CHAPTER

CLOSE QUARTERS

Over the hills peeped the moon.

Seiior Zorro would have had the sky heavy with
clouds this night and the moon obscured, could he
have had things his own way, for now he was riding
along the upper trail, and his pursuers were close
behind and could see him against the brightening
sky.

The horses ridden by the troopers were fresh, too,
and the most of those belonging to the men of his
excellency's escort were magnificent beasts as swift
as any in the country, and able to endure many miles
of travel at a terrific pace.

But now the highwayman thought only of getting
all the speed possible out of his own mount, and
of making as great as he could the distance between
himself and those who followed; for at the end of
his journey he would need quite a little time, if he
was to accomplish what he had set out to do.

He bent low over the senorita, and felt his horse
with the reins, making himself almost a part of the
animal he rode, as any good horseman can. He
reached the crest of another hill, and glanced back
before he began the descent into the valley. He
could see the foremost of his pursuers.

Had Senor Zorro been alone, no doubt the situa-

238

CLOSE QUAETEES 239

tion would have caused him no uneasiness, for many
times he had been in a position more difficult, and
had escaped. But the senorita was on the saddle
before him now, and he wanted to get her to a place
of safety, not only because she was the senorita and
the woman he loved, but also because he was not the
sort of man to let a prisoner he had rescued be re-
captured. Such an event, he felt, would be a reflec-
tion on his skill and daring.

Mile after mile he rode, the senorita clinging to
him, and neither speaking a word. Sehor Zorro
knew that he had gained some on those who followed,
but not enough to suit his purpose.

Now he urged his horse to greater effort and they
flew along the dusty highway, past haciendas where
the hounds barked in sudden alarm, past the huts
of natives where the clamor of beating hoofs on the
hard road caused bronze men and women to tumble
from their bunks and rush to their doors.

Once he charged through a flock of sheep that were
being driven to Reina de Los Angeles and the market
there, and scattered them to either side of the road,
leaving cursing herders behind him. The herders
gathered the flock again, just in time to have the
pursuing soldiers scatter it once more.

On and on he rode, until he could see, far ahead,
the mission buildings at San Gabriel glistening in
the moonlight. He came to a fork in the road, and
took the trail that ran to the right, toward the
hacienda of Fray Felipe.

Senor Zorro was a reader of men, and he was

240 THE MAEK OF ZORRO

trusting to his judgment to-niglit. He had known
that the Senorita Lolita would have to be left either
where there were women, else where there was a
robed Franciscan to stand guard over her, for Senor
Zorro was determined to protect his lady's good
name. And so he was pinning his faith to old Fray
Felipe.

Kow the horse was galloping over softer ground,
and was not making such good speed. Senor Zorro
had little hope that the troopers would turn into the
San Gabriel Road when they arrived at the fork,
as they might have done had it not been moonlight
and they had been unable to catch sight now and
then of the man they pursued. He was within a
mile of Fray Felipe's hacienda now, and once more
he gave his horse the spurs in an effort to obtain
greater speed.

^^I shall have scant time, senorita/' he said, bend-
ing over her and speaking into her ear. *' Every-
thing may depend upon whether I have been able to
judge a man correctly. I ask only that you trust
me."

'^You know I do that, senor f

**And you must trust the man to whom I am
carryi^ng you, senorita, and listen well to his advice
upon all matters concerned with this adventure.
The man is a fray.''

*'Then everything will be well, senor/' she re-
plied, clinging to him closely.

**If the saints are kind, we shall meet again soon,

CLOSE QUARTERS 241

senorita, I shall count the hours, and deem each
one of them an age. I beheve there are happier
days ahead for us."

'^May Heaven grant it!" the girl breathed.

*^ Where there is love, there may be hope, seno-
rita/'

*^Then my hope is great, seiior/'

*^And mine!" he said.

He turned his horse into Fray Felipe's driveway
now, and dashed toward the house. His intention
was to stop only long enough to leave the girl, hop-
ing that Fray Felipe would afford her protection,
and then ride on, making considerable noise and
drawing the troopers after him. He wanted them to
think that he was merely taking a short cut across
Fray Felipe's land to the other road, and that he
had not stopped at the house.

He reined in his horse before the veranda steps,
sprang to the gTOund and lifted the senorita from
the saddle, hurrying with her to the door. He beat
against it with his fist, praying that Fray Felipe
was a light sleeper and easily aroused. From the
far distance there came a low drumming sound
that he knew was made by the hoofs of his pursuers'
horses.

It seemed to Senor Zorro that it was an age before
the old fray threw open the door and stood framed
in it, holding a candle in one hand. The highway-
man stepped in swiftly and closed the door behind
him, so no light would show outside. Fray Felipe

242 THE MAEK OF ZOERO

had taken a step backward in astonishment when
he had beheld the masked man and the senorita he
escorted.

^^I am Senor Zorro, fray/^ the highwayman said,
speaking swiftly and in low tones. ** Perhaps you
may feel that you owe me a small debt for certain
things f

*'For punishing those who oppressed and mis-
treated me, I owe you a large debt, cahallero, though
it is against my principles to countenance violence
of any sort,'' Fray Felipe replied.

^*I was sure that I had made no mistake in read-
ing your character," Senor Zorro went on. ^'This
senorita is Lolita, the only daughter of Don Carlos
Pulido."

*^Ha!''

^^Don Carlos is a friend of the frailes, as yon
well know, and has known oppression and persecu-
tion the same as they. To-day the governor came
to Reina de Los Angeles and had Don Carlos ar-
rested and thrown into the carcel on a charge that
has no true worth, as I happen to know. He also
had the Dona Catalina and this young lady put in
carcel, in the same prison-room with drunkards and
dissolute women. With the aid of some good friends,
I rescued them."

*^May the saints bless you, senor, for that kind
action!" Fray Felipe cried.

'^Troopers are pursuing us, fray. It is not
seemly, of course, that the senorita ride farther with
me alone. Do you take her and hide her, fray —

CLOSE QUARTEES 243

unless yon fear that such a course may cause you
grave trouble."

^^SenorF^ Fray Felipe thundered.

*^If the soldiers take her,- they will put her in
carcel again, and probably she will be mistreated.
Care for her, then, protect her, and you will more
than discharge any obligation you may feel that you

owe me."

\f>

**And you, senor?'

**I shall ride on, that the troopers may pursue
me and not stop here at your house. I shall com-
municate with you later, fray. It is agreed between
us?"

**It is agreed!" Fray Felipe replied solemnly.
**And I would clasp you by the hand, senor I' '

That handclasp was short, yet full of expression
for all that. Senor Zorro then whirled toward the
door.

**Blow out your candle!" he directed. *^They
must see no light when I open the door."

In an instant Fray Felipe had complied, and they
were in darkness. Senorita Lolita felt Senor Zorro 's
lips press against her own for an instant, and knew
that he had raised the bottom of his mask to give
her this caress. And then she felt one of Fray
Felipe's strong arms around her.

**Be of good courage, daughter," the fray said.
*^ Senor Zorro, it appears, has as many lives as a
cat, and something tells me he was not bom to be
slain by troopers of his excellency."

The highwayman laughed lightly at that, opened

244 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

the door and darted tlirough, closed it softly be-
liind him, and so was gone.

Great encalyptns-trees shrouded the front of the
house in shadows, and in the midst of these shadows
was Senor Zorro's horse. He noticed, as he ran
toward the beast, that the soldiers were galloping
down the driveway, that they were much nearer than
he had expected to find them when he emerged from
the house.

He ran quickly toward his mount, tripped on a
stone and fell, and frightened the animal so that it
reared and darted half a dozen paces away, and
into the full moonlight.

The foremost of his pursuers shouted when he
saw the horse, and dashed toward it. Senor Zorro
picked himself up, gave a quick spring, caught the
reins from the ground and vaulted into the saddle.

But they were upon him now, surrounding him,
their blades flashing in the moonlight. He heard the
raucous voice of Sergeant Gronzales ordering the
men.

** Alive, if you can, soldiers ! His excellency would
see the rogue suffer for his crimes. At him, troop-
ers! By the saints!"

Senor Zorro parried a stroke with difficulty, and
found himself unhorsed. On foot, he fought his
way back into the shadows, and the troopers charged
after him. "With his back to the bole of a tree, Senor
Zorro fought them off.

Three sprang from their saddles to rush in at

CLOSE QUAETERS 245

him. He darted from the tree to another, but could
not reach his horse. But one belonging to a dis-
mounted trooper was near him, and he vaulted into
the saddle and dashed down the slope toward the
barns and corral.

** After the rogue!" he heard Sergeant Gonzales
shouting. ^^His excellency will have us flayed alive
if this pretty highwa^nnan escapes us now!''

They charged after him, eager to win promotion
and the reward. But Sehor Zorro had some sort
of a start of them, enough to enable him to play a
trick. As he came into the shadow cast by a big
barn, he slipped from the saddle, at the same time
giving the horse he rode a cut with his rowels. The
animal plunged ahead, snorting with pain and fright,
running s^\T.ftly through the darkness toward the
corral below. The soldiers dashed by in pursuit.

Senor Zorro waited until they were past, and
then he ran rapidly up the hill again. But he saw
that some of the troopers had remained behind to
guard the house, evidently with the intention of
searching it later, and so he found he could not reach
his horse.

And once more there rang out that pecuHar cry,
half shriek and half moan, with which Sehor Zorro
had startled those at the hacienda of Don Carlos
Pulido. His horse raised its head, whinnied once
in answer to his call, and galloped toward him.

Senor Zorro was in the saddle in an instant, spur-
ring across a field directly in front of him. His

246 THE MARK OF ZOERO

horse went over a stone fence as if it had not been
in the way. And after him speedily came a part of
the troopers.

They had discovered the trick he had used. They
charged at him from both sides, met behind him,
followed and strained to cut down his lead. He
could hear Sergeant Pedro Gonzales shouting lustily
for them to make a capture in the name of the gov-
ernor.

He hoped that he had drawn them all away from
Fray Fehpe's house, but he was not sure, and the
thing that demanded his attention the most now was
the matter of his own escape.

He urged his horse cruelly, knowing that this jour-
ney across plowed ground was taking the animal's
strength. He longed for a hard trail, the broad
highway.

And finally he reached the latter. Now he turned
his horse's head toward Reina de Los Angeles, for
he had work to do there. There was no senorita
before him on the saddle now, and the horse felt the
difference.

Senor Zorro glanced behind, and exulted to find
that he was running away from the soldiers. Over
the next hill, and he would be able to elude them!

But he had to be on guard, of course, for there
might be troopers in front of him, too. His excel-
lency might have sent reenforcements to Sergeant
Gonzales, or might have men watching from the tops
of the hills.

He glanced at the sky, and saw that the moon was

CLOSE QUAETERS 247

about to disappear behind a bank of clouds. He
would have to make use of the short period of dark-
ness, he knew.

Down into the little valley he rode, and looked
back to find that his pursuers were only at the crest
of the hill. Then came the darkness, and at the
proper time. Sehor Zorro had a lead of half a mile
on the pursuing soldiers now, but it was not his
intention to allow them to chase him into the pueblo.

He had friends in this locaHty. Beside the high-
way was an adobe hut, where there lived a native
Senor Zorro had saved from a beating. Now he dis-
mounted before the hut, and kicked against the door.
The frightened native opened it.

**I am pursued,'' Senor Zorro said.

That appeared to be all that was necessary, for
the native immediately threw the door of the hut
open wider. Senor Zorro led his horse inside, al-
most filling the crude building, and the door was
hastily shut again.

Behind it, the highwayman and the native stood
listening, the former with pistol in one hand and
his naked blade in the other.

CHAPTER XXXm

FLIGHT AND PURSUIT

That the determined pursuit of Senor Zorro and
Ms band of caballeros from the carcel had been
taken up so quickly was due to Sergeant Pedro Gon-
zales.

Sergeant Gonzales had heard the shots, and had
rushed from the tavern with the other troopers at
his heels, glad of an excuse to escape without paying
for the wine he had ordered. He had heard the
shout of the jailer, and had understood it, and im-
mediately had grasped the situation.

*' Senor Zorro is rescuing the prisoners!" he
screeched. ' ' The highwayman is in our midst again !
To horse, troopers, and after him! There is a
reward — "

They knew all about the reward, especially the
members of the governor's bodygiiard, who had
heard his excellency rave at mention of the high-
wayman's name and declare he would make a cap-
tain of the trooper who captured him or brought
in his carcass.

They rushed for their horses, swung themselves
into their saddles, and dashed across the plaza to-
ward the carcel with Sergeant Gonzales at their
head.

They saw the masked caballeros galloping across

248

FLIGHT AND PUESUIT 249

tlie plaza, and Sergeant Gonzales rubbed bis eyes
witb tbe back of one band and swore softly tbat be
bad been taking too mncb wine. He bad lied so
often about Senor Zorro baving a band of men at
bis back, tbat bere was tbe band materialized out
of bis falseboods.

Wben tbe cahalleros split into tbree detacbments,
Sergeant Gonzales and bis troopers were so near
tbem tbat tbey observed tbe maneuver. Gonzales
quickly made tbree troops of tbe men wbo followed
bim, and sent a troop after eacb band.

He saw tbe leader of tbe cahalleros turn toward
San Gabriel, be recognized tbe leap of tbe great
borse tbe bigbwayman rode, and be took after Senor
Zorro witb an exultant beart, being of a mind to
capture or slay tbe bigbwayman ratber tban to re-
take any of tbe rescued prisoners. For Sergeant
Pedro Gonzales bad not forgotten tbe time Senor
Zorro bad played witb bim in tbe tavern at Beina
de Los Angeles, nor bad be given up tbe idea of
taking bis vengeance for it.

He bad seen Senor Zorro 's borse run before, and
he wondered a bit now because tbe bigbwayman was
not putting greater distance between bimself and
bis pursuers. And Sergeant Gonzales guessed tbe
reason — tbat Senor Zorro bad Senorita Lolita Pu-
lido on tbe saddle before bim and was carrying ber
away.

Gonzales was in tbe lead, and now and tben be
turned bis bead and sbouted orders and encourage-
ment to bis troopers. Tbe miles flew beneatb tbem,

250 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

and Gonzales was glad because he was keeping
Seiior Zorro in sight.

<^To Fray Felipe's — that is where he is riding!''
Gonzales told himself. ^'I knew that old fray was
in league Ts^th the bandit! In some manner he
tricked me when I sought this Senor Zorro at his
hacienda before. Perhaps this highwayman has a
clever hiding-place there. Ha! By the saints, I
shall not be tricked again!"

On they rode, now and then catching glimpses of
the man they pursued, and always in the minds
of Gonzales and his troopers were thoughts of the
reward and promotion a capture would mean. Their
horses were beginning to show some fatigue already,
but they did not spare the animals.

They saw Seiior Zorro turn into the driveway that
led to Fray Felipe's house; and Sergeant Gonzales
chuckled low down in his throat because he felt that
he had £:uessed correctlv.

He had the hio'hwavman now! If Senor Zorro
continued to ride, he could be seen and followed be-
cause of the bright moonlight ; if he stopped, Seiior
Zorro could not hope to cope successfully with half
a score of troopers with Gonzales at their head.

They dashed up to the front of the house and
started to surround it. They saw Senor Zorro 's
horse. And then thev saw the highwavman him-
self, and Gonzales cursed because half a dozen
troopers were between him and his prey, and were
at him with their swords, threatening to end the
business before Gonzales could reach the scene.

FLIGHT AND PUESUIT 251

He tried to force his horse into the fight. He
saw Seiior Zorro spring into a saddle and dash away,
and the troopers after him. Gonzales, not being
close, gave his attention to the other half of his
duty — ^he bade some of his soldiers surround the
house so that none could leave it. ^

Then he saw Seiior Zorro take the stone fence,
and started in pursuit, all except the guards around
the house joining him. But Sergeant Gonzales went
only as far as the crest of the first hill. He noticed
how the highwayman's horse was running, and re-
alized that he could not be overtaken. Perhaps the
sergeant could gain some glory if he returned to
Fray Felipe's house and recaptured the senorita.

The house was still being gTiarded when he dis-
mounted before it, and his men reported that none
had attempted to leave the building. He called two
of his men to his side, and knocked on the door.
Almost instantly, it was opened by Fray Felipe.

"Are you just from bed, fray?" Gonzales asked.

"Is it not a time of night for honest men to be
abed?" Fray Felipe asked in turn.

"It is, fray — yet we find you out of it. How does
it happen that you have not come from the house
before? Did we not make enough noise to awaken
your'

"I heard sounds of combat — "

"And you may hear more, fray^ else feel the sting
of a whijD again, unless you answer questions swiftly
and to the point. Do you deny that Senor Zorro
has been here?"

252 THE LIAEK OF ZOEEO

^*I do not/'

**Ha! Now we liave it! You admit, then, that
yon are in leagne with this pretty highwayman, that
you shield him upon occasion! You admit that,
frayf''

**I admit nothing of the sort!'' Fray Felipe re-
plied. *'I never set my eyes on this Senor Zorro,
to my knowledge, until a very few minutes ago."

*^That is a Hkely story! Tell it to the stupid
natives ! But do not try to tell it to a wise trooper,
fray! What did this Senor Zorro wish?"

*^You were so close upon the man's heels, senor ^
that he scarce had time to wish for anything, ' ' Fray
Felipe said.

**Yet you had some speech with him?"

*^I opened the door at his knock, senor ^ the same
as I opened it at yours."

'^What said he?"

'^That soldiers were pursuing him."

*^And he asked that you hide him, so he could
escape capture at our hands?"

'^He did not."

** Wanted a fresh horse, did he?"

*^He did not say as much, senor. If he is such a
thief as he is painted, undoubtedly he would merely
have taken a horse without asking, had he wanted
it."

^'Ha! What business had he with you, then?
It would be well for you to answer openly, fray!''

*'Did I say that he had business with me?"
Ha! By the saints—"

FLIGHT AND PURSUIT 253

^^The saints are better off your lips, senor—
boaster and drunkard!''

*^Do you wish to receive another beating, fray?
I am riding on his excellency's business. Do not
you delay me further ! What said this pretty high-
wayman f

*^ Nothing that I am at liberty to repeat to you,
senor/ ^ Fray Felipe said.

Sergeant Gonzales pushed him aside roughly and
entered the living-room, and his two troopers fol-
lowed at his heels.

*^ Light the candelerol^' Gonzales commanded his
men. ''Take candles, if you can find any. We
search the house!"

*'You search my poor house?" Fray Felipe cried.
**And what do you expect to find?" Fray Felipe
asked.

''I expect to find the piece of merchandise this
pretty Senor Zorro left here, fray,'^

*'What do you imagine he left?"

**Ha! A package of clothing, I suppose! A bun-
dle of loot! A bottle of wine! A saddle to be
mended ! What would the f eUow leave, fray? One
thing impresses me — Senor Zorro 's horse carried
double when he arrived at your house, and was
carrying none but Senor Zorro when he departed."

''And you expect to find — "

"The other half of the horse's load," replied Gon-
zales. "Failing to find it, we may try a twist or
two of your arm to see whether you can be made
to speak."

254: THE MAEK OF ZOREO

**You would dare! You would so affront a fray?
You would descend to torture?"

*^Meal mush and goat's milk!" quoth Sergeant
Gonzales. *^You fooled me once in some manner,
but you will not so fool me again. Search the house,
troopers, and be sure that you search it well! I
shall remain in this room and keep this entertaining
fray company. I shall endeavor to discover what
his sensations were while he was being whipped for
swindling. ' '

^^ Coward and brute!" Fray Felipe thundered.
** There may come a day when persecution shall
cease."

^'Meal mush and goat's milk!"

^^When this disorder shall end and honest men
be given their just dues!" Fray Felipe cried.
^^When those who have founded a rich empire here
shall receive the true fruits of their labor and dar-
ing instead of having them stolen by dishonest poli-
ticians and men who stand in their favor!"

^'Goat's milk and meal mush, fray!''

^^When there shall be a thousand Senor Zorros,
and more if necessary, to ride up and down El
Camino Real and punish those who do wrong!
Sometimes I would that I were not a fray, that I
might play such a game myself!"

^^We'd run you down in short order and stretch
a rope with your weight," Sergeant Gonzales told
him. *'Did you help his excellency's soldiers more,
perhaps his excellency would treat you with more
consideration."

FLIGHT AND PUESUIT 255

*'I give aid to no spawn of the cle\dl!'' Fray
Felipe said.

*^Ha! Now you grow angry, and that is against
your principles ! Is it not the part of a robed f^^ay
to receive what comes his way and give thanks for
it, no matter how much it chokes him? Answer
me that, angry one!''

*^You have about as much knowledge of a Fran-
ciscan's principles and duties as has the horse you
ride ! ' '

*^I ride a wise horse, a noble animal. He comes
when I call and gallops when I connnand. Do not
deride him until you ride him. Ha! An excellent
jest!"

^ ' Imbecile ! ' '

*^Meal mush and goat's milk !" said Sergeant Gon-
zales.

CHAPTER

THE BLOOD OF THE PUUDOS

The two troopers came back into the room. They
had searched the house well, they reported, invad-
ing every comer of it, and no trace had been found
of any person other than Fray Felipe's native serv-
ants, all of whom were too terrified to utter a false-
hood, and had said they had seen nobody around
the place who did not belong there.

**Ha! Hidden away well, no doubt," Gonzales
said. '^Fray, what is that in the corner of the
room?''

*^ Bales of hides," Fray Felipe replied.

**I have been noticing it from time to time. The
dealer from San Gabriel must have been right when
he said the hides he purchased of you were not prop-
erly cured. Are those!"

*^I think you will find them so."

*'Then why did they move?" Sergeant Gonzales
asked. '^ Three times I saw the corner of a bale
move. Soldiers, search there!"

Fray Felipe sprang to his feet.

*^ Enough of this nonsense !" he cried. *^You have
searched and found nothing. Search the bams next,
and then go ! At least let me be master in my own
house. You have disturbed my rest enough as it is."

256

THE BLOOD OF THE PULIDOS 257

''You will take a solemn oath, fray, that there is
nothing alive behind those bales of hides!"

Fray Felipe hesitated, and Sergeant Gonzales
grinned.

'^Not ready to forswear yourself, eh?" the ser-
geant asked. *'I had a thought you would hesitate
at that, my robed Franciscan ! Soldiers, search the
bales!''

The two men started toward the corner. But
they had not covered one-half the distance when
Seiiorita Lolita Pulido stood up behind the bales
of hides and faced them.

''Ha! Unearthed at last!" Gonzales cried.
''Here is the package Senor Zorro left in the fray^s
keeping! And a pretty package it is! Back to
carcel she goes ! And this escape will but make her
final sentence the greater!"

But there was Pulido blood in the senorita's veins,
and Gonzales had not taken that into account. Now
the senor it a stepped to the end of the pile of hides,
so that light from the candelero struck full upon
her.

"One moment, senor esf" she said.

One hand came from behind her back, and in it
she held a long, keen knife such as sheep skinners
used. She put the point of the knife against her
breast, and regarded them bravely.

"Senoritp. Lolita Pulido does not return to the
foul carcel now or at any time, senores!" she said.
"Eather would she plunge this knife into her heart,
and so die as a woman of good blood should ! K his

253 THE MAEK OF ZOERO

excellency wishes for a dead prisoner, he may have
one ! ' '

Sergeant Gonzales uttered an exclamation of an-
noyance. He did not doubt that the senorita would
do as she had threatened, if the men made an at-
tempt to seize her. And while he might have or-
dered the attempt in the case of an ordinary pris-
oner, he did not feel sure that the governor would
say he had done right if he ordered it now. After
all, Senorita Pulido was the daughter of a don, and
her self-inflicted death might cause trouble for his
excellency. It might prove the spark to the powder
magazine.

"Senorita, the person who takes his or her own
life risks eternal damnation," the sergeant said.
^*Ask this fray if it is not so. You are only under
arrest, not convicted and sentenced. If you are in-
nocent, no doubt you soon will be set at liberty."

*^It is no time for lying speeches, sefior," the girl
replied. *'I realize the circumstances only too well.
I have said that I will not return to carcel, and I
meant it — and mean it now. One step toward me,
and I take my own life ! ' *

"Senorita — " Fray Felipe began.

^^It is useless for you to attempt to prevent me,
good fray/' she interrupted. ^'I have pride left
me, thank the saints ! His excellency gets only my
dead body, if he gets me at all."

**Here is a pretty mess!" Sergeant Gonzales ex-
claimed. ^*I suppose there is nothing for us to do

THE BLOOD OF THE PULIDOS 259

except retire and leave the senorita to her fre^
dom ! ' '

*'Ah, no, senor!'^ she cried quickly. '^Yon are
clever, but not clever enough by far. You would
retire and continue to have your men surround the
house? You would watch for an opportunity, and
then seize mef

Gonzales growled low in his throat, for that had
been his intention, and the girl had read it.

^^I shall be the one to leave," she said. ^'Walk
backward, and stand against the wall, senores! Do
it immediately, or I plunge this knife into my
bosom!''

They could do nothing except obey. The soldiers
looked to the sergeant for instructions, and the ser-
geant was afraid to risk the senorita' s death, know-
ing it would call down upon his head the wrath of
the governor, who would say that he had bungled.

Perhaps, after all, it would be better to let the
girl leave the house. She might be captured after-
ward, for surely a girl could not escape the troopers.

She watched them closely as she darted across
the room to the door. The knife was still held at
her breast.

**Fray Felipe, you wish to go with me?" she
asked. ^^You may be punished if you remain."

'*Yet I must remain, senorita, I could not run
away. May the saints protect you!"

She faced Gonzales and the soldiers once more.

**I am going through this door," she said. "You

260 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

will remain in this room. There are troopers out-
side, of course, and they will try to stop me. I
shall tell them that I have your permission to leave.
If they call and ask you, you are to say that it is so."

'^Andif I do not?"

**Then I use the knife, senorl^'

She opened the door, turned her head for an in-
stant and glanced out.

**I trust that your horse is an excellent one, senor,
for I intend to use it," she told the sergeant.

She darted suddenly through the door, and
slammed it shut behind her.

^^ After her!" Gonzales cried. **I looked into her
eyes! She will not use the knife — she fears it!"

He hurled himself across the room, the two sol-
diers with him. But Fray Felipe had been passive
long enough. He went into action now. He did not
stop to consider the consequences. He threw out
one leg, and tripped Sergeant Gonzales. The two
troopers crashed into him, and all went to the floor
in a tangle.

Fray Felipe had gained some time for her, and
it had been enough. For the senorita had rushed to
the horse and had jumped into the saddle. She could
ride like a native. Her tiny feet did not reach half-
way to the sergeant's stirrups, but she thought noth-
ing of that.

She wheeled the horse's head, kicked at his si3es
as a trooper rushed around the corner of the house.
A pistol ball whistled past her head. She bent lower
over the horse's neck, and rode!

THE BLOOD OF THE PULIDOS 261

Now a cursing Sergeant Gonzales was on the
veranda, shouting for his men to get to horse and
follow her. The tricky moon was behind a bank
of clouds again. They could not tell the direction
the senorita was taking except by listening for the
sounds of the horse's hoofs. And they had to stop
to do that — and if they stopped they lost time and
distance.

CHAPTER XXXV

THE CLASH OF BLADES AGAT^

Sexoe Zoero stood like a statue in the native's
hut, one hand grasping his horse's muzzle. The na-
tive crouched at his side.

Down the highway came the drumming of horses'
hoofs. Then the pursuit swept by, the men calling
to one another and cursing the darkness, and rushed
down the valley.

Senor Zorro opened the door and glanced out, lis-
tened for a moment, and then led out his horse.
He tendered the native a coin.

^'Not from you, senor/' the native said.

^'Take it. You have need of it, and I have not,"
the hisrhwavman said.

He vaulted into the saddle and turned his horse
up the steep slope of the hill behind the hut. The
animal made little noise as it climbed to the summit.
Sehor Zorro descended into the depression on the
other side, and came to a narrow trail, and along
this he rode at a slow gallop, stopping his mount
now and then to listen for sounds of other horsemen
who might be abroad.

He rode toward Reina de Los Angeles, but he ap-
peared to be in no hurry about arriving at the
puehlo. Seiior Zorro had another adventure planned

262

THE CLASH OF BLADES AGAIN 263

for this night, and it had to be accomplished at a
certain time and under certain conditions.

It was two hours later when he came to the crest
of the hill above the town. He sat quietly in the
saddle for some time, regarding the scene. The
moonlight was fitful now, but now and then he could
make out the plaza.

He saw no troopers, heard nothing of them, de-
cided that they had ridden back in pursuit of him,
and that those who had been sent in pursuit of Don
Carlos and the Dona Catalina had not yet returned.
In the tavern, there were lights, and in the presidio^
and in the house where his excellency was a guest.

Senor Zorro waited until it was dark, and then
urged his horse forward slowly, but off the main
highway. He circled the pueblo, and in time ap-
proached the presidio from the rear.

He dismounted now, and led his horse, going for-
ward slowly, often stopping to listen, for this was
a very ticklish business and might end in disaster
if a mistake were made.

He stopped the horse behind the presidio, where
the wall of the building would cast a shadow if the
moon came from behind the clouds again, and went
forward cautiously, follomng the wall as he had
done on that other night.

When he came to the office window, he peered in-
side. Captain Ramon was there, alone, looking over
some reports spread on the table before him, evi-
dently awaiting the return of his men.

Senor Zorro crept to the corner of the building,

264 THE MARK OF ZOEEO

and found there was no gnard. He had guessed
and hoped that the comandante had sent every avail-
able man to the chase, but he knew that he would
have to act quickly, for some of the troopers might
return.

He slipped through the door and crossed the big
lounging-room, and so came to the door of the office.
His pistol was in his hand, and could a man have
seen behind the mask, he would have observed that
Senor Zorro's lips were crushed in a thin straight
line of determination.

As upon that other night, Captain Eamon whirled
around in his chair when he heard the door open
behind him, and once more he saw the eyes of Senor
Zorro glittering through his mask, saw the muzzle
of the pistol menacing him.

^^Not a move! Not a sound! It would give me
pleasure to fill your body with hot lead!^' Senor
Zorro said. "You are alone — your silly troopers
are chasing me where I am not."

"By the saints — " Captain Eamon breathed.

"Not so much as a whisper, senor, if you hope
to live. Turn your back to me ! ' '

"You would murder me I"

"I am not that sort, comandante! And I said
for you to make not a sound! Put your hands be-
hind your back, for I am going to bind your wrists !"

Captain Eamon complied. Senor Zorro stepped
forward swiftly., and bound the wrists with his own
sash, which he tore from his waist. Then he whirled
Captain Eamon around so that he faced him.

THE CLASH OF BLADES AGAIN 265

*' Where is his excellency f he asked.

*^At Don Juan Estados's house.'*

*'I knew as much, but wanted to see whether yon
prefer to speak the truth to-night. It is well if you
do so. We are going to caU upon the governor."

''To caU— ''

*'Upon his excellency, I said. And do not speak
again! Come with me!"

He grasped Captain Kamon by the arm and hur-
ried him from the office, across the lounging-room^
out of the door. He piloted him around the build-
ing to where the horse was waiting.

''Mount!" he commanded. "I shall sit behind
you, with the muzzle of this pistol at the base of
your brain. Make no mistake, comanda7ite, unless
you are tired of life. I am a determined man this
night."

Captain Eamon had observed it. He mounted as
he was directed, and the highwayman mounted be-
hind him, and held the reins with one hand and the
pistol with the other. Captain Ramon could feel
the touch of cold steel at the back of his head.

Senor Zorro guided his horse with his knees in-
stead of with the reins. He urged the beast down
the slope, and circled the town once more, keeping
away from the beaten trails, and so approached the
rear of the house where his excellency was a guest.

Here was the difficult part of the adventure. He
wasited to get Captain Ramon before the governor,
to talk to both of them, and to do it without having
anybody else interfere. He forced the captain to

266 THE MAEK OF ZORRO

dismount, and led him to the rear wall of the house.
There Tvas a patio there, and they entered it.

It appeared that Senor Zorro knew the interior
of the house well. He entered it through a servant's
room, taking Captain Ramon with him, and passed
through into a hall without awakening the sleeping
native. They went along the hall slowly. From one
room came the sound of snoring. From beneath
the door of another light streamed.

Senor Zorro stopped before that door and applied
an eye to a crack at the side of it. If Captain Ramon
harbored thoughts of voicing an alarm, or of offer-
ing battle, the touch of the pistol at the back of his
head caused him to forget them.

And he had scant time to think of a way out of
this predicament, for suddenly Seiior Zorro threw
open the door, hurled Captain Ramon through it,
followed himself, and shut the door quickly behind
him. In the room there were his excellency and his
host.

** Silence, and do not move!" Senor Zorro said.
*^The slightest alarm, and I put a pistol ball through
the governor's head! That is understood? Very
well, senoresf

*' Senor Zorro!" the governor gasped.

*'The same, your excellency. I ask your host to
be not frightened, for I mean him no harm if he
sits quietly until I am done. Captain Ramon, kindly
sit across the table from the governor. I am de-
lighted to find the head of the state awake and
awaiting news from those who are chasing me. His

THE CLASH OF BLADES AGAIN 267

brain will be clear, and lie can understand better
what is said.'^

*^Wbat means this outrage T' the governor ex-
claimed. *' Captain Ramon, how comes this! Seize
this man! You are an officer — "

*'Do not blame the comandante/' Seiior Zorro
said. ^ ' He knows it is death to make a move. There
is a little matter that needs explanation, and since
I cannot come to you in broad day as a man should,
I am forced to adopt this method. Make yourselves
comfortable, senores. This may take some little
time. ' '

His excellency fidgeted in his chair.

**You have this day insulted a family of good
blood, your excellency, ' ' Senor Zorro went on. ' ' You
have forgotten the proprieties to such an extent
that you have ordered thrown into your miserable
carcel a hidalgo and his gentle wife and innocent
daughter. You have taken such means to gratify a
spite — "

^^They are traitors!" his excellency said.

'^What have they done of treason?"

**You are an outlaw with a price put upon your
head. They have been guilty of harboring you,
giving you aid."

** Where got you this information?"

** Captain Ramon has an abundance of evidence."

**Ha! The comandantej eh? "We shall see about
that! Captain Ramon is present, and we can get
at the truth. May I ask the nature of your evi-
dence?"

268 THE l^IAEK OF ZOERO

^' You were at the Pulido hacienda/' the governor
said.

^^I admit it."

'*A native saw yon, and carried word to the pre-
sidio. The soldiers hurried out to effect your cap-
ture."

**A moment. Who said a native sounded the
alarm!"

^'Captain Eamon assured me so."

^'Here is the first chance for the captain to speak
the truth. As a matter of fact, comandayite, was
it not Don Carlos Pulido himself who sent the na-
tive? The truth!"

*^It was a native brought word."

'^And he did not tell your sergeant that Don
Carlos had sent him? Did he not say that Don
Carlos had slipped him the information in whispers
while he was carrying his fainting wife to her room?
Is it not the truth that Don Carlos did his best to
hold me at his hacienda until the soldiers arrived,
that I might be captured? Did not Don Carlos thus
try to show his loyalty to the governor!"

*^By the saints, Ramon, you never told me as
much!" his excellency cried.

<<They are traitors!" the captain declared stub-
bornly.

''What other evidence?" Senor Zorro asked.

*'Why, when the soldiers arrived, you concealed
yourself by some trick," the governor said. ''And
presently Captain Ramon himself reached the scene,
and while he was there you crept from a closet, ran

THE CLASH OF BLADES AGAIN 269

him through treacherously from behind, and made
your escape. It is an evident fact that Don Carlos
had hidden you in the closet."

'*By the saints!'^ Senor Zorro swore. *^I had
thought, Captain Ramon, that you were man enough
to admit defeat, though I knew you for a scoundrel
in other things. Tell the truth!"

^'Thatis— the truth!"

**Tell the truth!" Senor Zorro commanded, step-
ping closer to him and bringing up the pistol. "I
came from that closet and spoke to you. I gave
you time to draw blade and get on guard. We
fenced for fully ten minutes, did we not?

*^I admit freely that for a moment you puzzled
me, and then I solved your method of giving battle
and knew you were at my mercy. And then, when
I could have slain you easily, I but scratched your
shoulder. Is not that the truth? Answer, as you
hope to live!"

Captain Ramon licked his dry lips, and could not
meet the governor's eyes.

* ^Answer!" Senor Zorro thundered.
It is — ^the truth!" the captain acknowledged.
Ha! So I ran you through from behind, eh?
It is an insult to my blade to have it enter your
body! You see, your excellency, what manner of
man you have for comandante here! Is there more
evidence ? ' '

^' There is!" the governor said. ^'When the Pu-
lidos were guests at the house of Don Diego Vega,
and Don Diego was away, Captain Ramon went to

270 THE MAEK OF ZORRO

pay his respects, and found you there alone with
the senorita,'*

''And that shows what?"

*'That you are in league with the Pulidos! That
they harbored you even in the house of Don Diego,
a loyal man. And when the captain discovered you
there, the senorita flung herself upon him and held
him — delayed him, rather — until you made your es-
cape through a window. Is not that enough ? ' '

Senor Zorro bent forward, and his eyes seemed
to burn through the mask and into those of Captain
Ramon.

''So that is the tale he told, eh!" the highwayman
said. "As a matter of fact. Captain Ramon is
enamored of the senorita. He went to the house,
found her alone, forced his attentions upon her, even
told her that she should not object, since her father
was in the bad graces of the governor! He at-
tempted to caress her, and she called for help. I
responded."

"How did you happen to be there?"

"I do not care to answer that, but I take my
oath the senorita did not know of my presence.
She called for aid, and I responded.

"I made this thing you call a comandante kneel
before her and apologize. And then I took him to
the door and kicked him out into the dust! And
afterward I visited him at the presidio, and told
him that he had given insult to a noble senorita — "

' ' It appears that you hold some love for her your-
self," the governor said.

THE CLASH OF BLADES AGAIN 271

^*I do, your excellency, and am prond to admit it !''

*^Ha! You condemn her and her parents by that
statement! You deny now they are in league with
you?"

^^I do. Her parents do not know of our love!''

''This senorita is scarcely conventional!'^

^^Senor! Governor or no, another thought like
that and I spill your blood!" Sehor Zorro cried.
''I have told you what happened that night at the
house of Don Diego Yega. Captain Ramon will
testify that what I have said is the exact truth. Is
it not, comanclante? Answer!"

''It — it is the truth!" the captain gulped, looking
at the muzzle of the highwayman's pistol.

"Then you have told me falsehood, and can no
longer be an officer of mine!" the governor cried.
"It appears that this highwayman can do as he
pleases with you ! Ha ! But I still believe that Don
Carlos Pulido is a traitor, and the members of his
family, and it has availed you nothing, Sehor Zorro,
to play this little scene.

"My soldiers shall continue to pursue them — and
you! And before they are done, I'll have the Pu-
lidos dragged in the dirt, and I'll have you stretch-
ing a rope with your carcass!"

"Quite a bold speech!" observed Sehor Zorro.
"You set your soldiers a pretty task, your excel-
lency. I rescued your three prisoners to-night, and
they have escaped."

"They shall be retaken!"

"Time alone will tell that. And now I have an-

272 THE MARK OF ZOREO

other duty to perform here! Your excellency, you
Tvill take your chair to that far corner, and sit there,
and your host will sit beside you. And there you
shall remain until I have finished/'

*^What do you mean to dof

*^Obey me!'' Senor Zorro cried. **I have scant
time for argument, even with a governor."

He watched while the two chairs were placed and
the governor and his host had seated themselves.
And then he stepped nearer Captain Ramon.

*^You insulted a pure and innocent girl, coman-
'dante!" he said. '^For that, you shall fight! Your
scratched shoulder is healed now, and you wear
your blade by your side! Such a man as you is
not fit to breathe God's pure air! The country is
Letter for your absence ! On your feet, senor, and
on guard!"

Captain Ramon was white with rage. He knew
that he was ruined. He had been forced to confess
that he had lied. He had heard the governor re-
move his rank. And this man before him had been
the cause of all of it!

Perhaps, in his anger, he could kill this Senor
Zorro, stretch this Curse of Capistrano on the
floor with his life blood flowing away. Perhaps, if
he did that, his excellency would relent.

He sprang from his chair, and backward to the
governor.

** Unfasten my wrists!" he cried. *^Let me at
this dog!"

*'*You were as good ^s dead before — you certainly

THE CLASH OF BLADES AGAIN 273

are dead after using that wordT' Senor Zorro said
calmly.

The comandante's wrists were untied. He
whipped out his blade, sprang forward with a cry,
and launched himself in a furious attack upon the
highwayman.

Senor Zorro gave ground before this onslaught,
and so obtained a position where the light from
the candelero did not bother his eyes. He was skilled
with a blade, and had fenced for life many times,
and he knew the danger in the attack of an angered
man who did not fence according to the code.

And he knew, too, that such anger is spent quickly
unless a fortunate thrust makes the possessor of it
victor almost at once. And so he retreated step by
step, guarding well, parrying vicious strokes, alert
for an unexpected move.

The governor and his host were sitting in their
corner, but bending forward and watching the com-
bat.

**Eun him through, Ramon, and I reinstate and
promote you!'' his excellency cried.

The comandante thus was urged to do it. Senor
Zorro found his opponent fighting much better than
he had before in Don Carlos Pulido's house at the
hacienda. He found himself forced to fight out of
a dangerous corner, and the pistol he held in his left
hand to intimidate the governor and his host both-
ered him.

And suddenlv he tossed it to the table, and then
swunof around so that neither of the two men could

274 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

dart from a corner and get it without running the
chance of receiving a blade between the ribs. And
there he stood his ground and fought.

Captain Ramon could not force him to give way
now. His blade seemed to be a score. It darted in
and out, trying to find a resting place in the cap-
tain's body; for Senor Zorro was eager to have an
end of this and be gone. He knew that the da^vn
was not far away, and he feared that some trooper
might come to the house with a report for the gov-
ernor.

' ' Fight, insulter of girls ! " he cried. * ' Fight, man
who tells a falsehood to injure a noble family!
Fight, coward and poltroon ! Now death stares you
in the face, and soon you'll be claimed! Ha! I al-
most had you then ! Fight, cur ! ' '

Captain Ramon cursed and charged, but Senor
Zorro received him and drove him back, and so held
his position. The perspiration was standing out on
the captain's forehead in great globules. His breath
was coming heavily from between his parted lips.
His eyes were bright and bulging.

' ^ Fight, weakling ! ' ' the highwayman taunted him.
''This time I am not attacking from behind! If you
have prayers to say, say them — for your time grows
short ! ' '

The ringing blades, the shifting feet on the floor,
the heavy breathing of the combatants and of the
two spectators of this life-and-death struggle were
the only sounds in the room. His excellency sat far

THE CLASH OF BLADES AGAIN 275

forward on his chair, his hands gripping the edges
of it so that his knuckles were white.

**Kill me this highwayman!'' he shrieked. **Use
your good skill, Ramon! At him!"

Captain Eamon rushed again, calling into play
his last bit of strength, fencing with what skill he
could command. His arms were as lead; his breath
was fast. He thrust, he lunged — and made a mistake
of a fraction of an inch!

Like the tongue of a serpent, Senor Zorro's blade
shot in. Thrice it darted forward, and upon the
fair brow of Ramon, just between the eyes, there
flamed suddenly a red, bloody letter Z !

^^The Mark of Zorro!" the highwayman cried.
'*You wear it forever now, comandante!'^

Senor Zorro's face became more stern. His blade
shot in again and came out dripping red. The
comandante gasped and slipped to the floor.

' ' You have slain him ! ' ' the governor cried. * ' You
have taken his life, wretch!"

^^Ha! I trust so! The thrust was through the
heart, excellency! He never will insult a senorita
again ! "

Senor Zorro looked down at his fallen foe, re-
garded the governor a moment, then wiped his blade
on the sash that had bound the comandante' s wrists.
He returned the blade to its scabbard, and picked
up his pistol from the table.

**My night's work is done!" he said.

**And you shall hang for it!" his excellency cried.

276 THE MAEK OF ZOERO

*^ Perhaps — when yon catch me!" replied the
Cnrse of Capistrano, bowing ceremonionsly.

Then, withont glancing again at the twitching
hody of him who had been Captain Eamon, he
whirled through the door and was in the hall, and
rushed through it to the patio and to his horse.

CHAPTER XXXVI

ATT. AGAINST THEM

And he rushed into danger!

The dawn had come; the first pink streaks had
appeared in the eastern sky, and then the sun had
risen quickly above the heights to the east, and now
the plaza was bathed in brilliance. There was no
mist, no high fog even, and objects on the hillsides
far away stood out in relief. It was no morning in
which to ride for life and freedom.

Senor Zorro had delayed too long with the gov-
ernor and comandante, else had misjudged the hour.
He swung into his saddle and urged his beast out
of the patio — and then a full realization of his im-
minent peril came to him.

Down the trail from San Gabriel came Sergeant
Pedro Gonzales and his troopers. Down the Pala
road came another detachment of soldiers that had
been trailing the caballeros and Don Carlos and
had given up in disgust. Over the hill toward the
presidio came the third body of men, who had been
in chase of those who had rescued the Dona Cata-
lina. Senor Zorro found himself hemmed in by his
foes.

The Curse of Capistrano deliberately stopped his
horse and for a moment contemplated the outlook.
He glanced at the three bodies of troopers, esti-

277

278 THE MAEK OF ZORRO

mated distance. And in that instant one with Ser-
geant Gonzales's detachment saw him, and raised
the alarm.

They knew that magnificent horse, that long pur-
ple cloak, that black mask and wide sombrero ! They
saw before them the man they had been pursuing
throughout the night, the man who had made fools
of them and played with them about the hills and
valleys. They feared the rage of his excellency and
their superior officers, and in their hearts and minds
was determination to capture or slay this Curse
of Capistrano now as this last chance was offered
them.

Senor Zorro put spurs to his horse and dashed
across the plaza, in full view of some score of citi-
zens. Just as he did that, the governor and his
host rushed from the house, shrieking that Senor
Zorro was a murderer and should be taken. Natives
scurried like so many rats for shelter ; men of rank
stood still and gaped in astonishment.

Senor Zorro, having crossed the plaza, drove his
horse at highest speed straight toward the highway.
Sergeant Gonzales and his troopers rushed to cut
him off and turn him back, shrieking at one another,
pistols in their hands, blades loosened in their scab-
bards. Reward and promotion and satisfaction were
to be their lot if they made an end of the highway-
man here and now.

Senor Zorro was forced to swerve from his first
course, for he saw that he could not win through.
He had not taken his pistol from his belt, but he

ALL AGAINST THEM 279

had drawn his blade, and it dangled from his right
wrist in such fashion that he could grip the hilt of
it instantly and put it into play.

He cut across the plaza again, almost running
down several men of rank who were in the way.
He passed within a few paces of the infuriated
governor and his host, darted between two houses,
and rushed toward the hills in that direction.

It appeared that he had some small chance of
escaping the cordon of his foes now. He scorned
paths and trails, and cut across the open ground.
From both sides the troopers galloped to meet him,
flying toward the angle of the wedge, hoping to
reach it in time and turn him back once more.

Gonzales was shouting orders in his great voice,
and he was sending a part of his men down into
the pueblo, so they would be in proper position in
case the highwayman turned back again, and could
keep him from escaping to the west.

He reached the highway and started down it to-
ward the south. It was not the direction he would
have preferred, but he had no choice now. He
dashed around a curve in the road, where some na-
tives' huts cut off the view — and suddenly he pulled
up his horse, almost unseating himself.

For here a new menace presented itself. Straight
at him along the highway flew a horse and rider, and
close behind came half a dozen troopers in pursuit !

Senor Zorro whirled his horse. He could not turn
to the right because of a stone fence. His horse
could have jumped it, but on the other side was

280 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

soft, plowed ground, and he knew he could make
no progress across it, and that the troopers might
cut him down with a pistol bullet.

Nor could he turn to the left, for there was a sheer
precipice down which he could not hope to ride with
safety. He had to turn back toward Sergeant Gon-
zales and the men who rode with him, hoping to get
a distance of a couple of hundred yards, where he
could make a descent, before Gonzales and his men
arrived at the spot.

He gripped his sword now, and was prepared for
fight, for he knew it was going to be close work.
He glanced back over his shoulder — and gasped his
surprise.

For it was Senorita Lolita Pulido who rode that
horse and was pursued by the half dozen troopers,
and he had thought her safe at the Jiaclenda of
Fray Felipe. Her long black hair was down and
streaming out behind her. Her tiny heels were glued
to the horse's flanks. She bent forward as she rode,
holding the reins low down, and Senor Zorro, even
in that instant, marveled at her skill with a mount.

^^ Senor !'^ he heard her shout.

And then she had reached his side, and they rode
together, dashing down upon Gonzales and his
troopers.

^'They have been chasing me — for hours!*' she
gasped. **I escaped them — at Fray Felipe's!''

* ^ Ride close ! Do not waste breath ! " he screeched,

**My horse — is almost done — senor !''

Senor Zorro glanced aside at the beast, and sa\^

'ALL AGAINST THEM 281

that lie was suffering from fatigue. But there was
scant time to consider that now. The soldiers be-
hind had gained some; those in front presented a
lively menace that required deep consideration.

Down the trail they flew, side by side, straight at
Gonzales and his men. Senor Zorro could see that
pistols were out, and he doubted not that the gov-
ernor had given orders to get him dead or alive, but
to see that he did not escape again.

Now he spurred a few paces in advance of the
senorita, and called upon her to ride his horse's
tracks. He dropped the reins on his mount's neck,
and held his blade ready. He had two weapons — his
blade and his horse.

Then came the crash. Senor Zorro swerved his
horse at the proper instant, and the senorita fol-
lowed him. He cut at the trooper on his left, swung
over and cut at the one on his right. His horse
crashed into that of a third trooper, and hurled it
against the animal the sergeant rode.

He heard shrill cries about him. He knew that
the men who had been pursuing Senorita Lolita had
run into the others, and that there was a certain
amount of confusion, that they could not use blades
for fear of cutting down one another.

And then he was through them, with the senorita
riding at his side again. Once more he was at the
edge of the plaza. His horse was showing signs
of weariness, and he had gained nothing.

For the way to San Gabriel was not open, the
way to Pala was closed, he could not hope to es-

282 THE MAEK OF ZOREO

cape by cutting across soft ground, and on the oppo-
site side of the plaza were more troopers, in saddle
and waiting to cut him off, no matter in which direc-
tion he started.

**We are caught !'' he shouted. ^^But we are not
done, senoritaf

*^ My horse is stumbling!*' she cried.

Senor Zorro saw that it was so. He knew that
the beast could not make another hundred yards.

*'To the tavern!'' he cried.

They galloped straight across the plaza. At the
door of the tavern the senorita's horse staggered
and fell. Senor Zorro caught the girl in his arms
in time to save her from a hard fall, and, still carry-
ing her, darted through the tavern door.

**Out!" he cried to the landlord and the native
servant. *^Out!" he shrieked to half a dozen loit-
erers, exhibiting his pistol. They rushed through
the door and into the plaza.

The highwayman threw the door shut and bolted
it. He saw that every window was closed except
,the one that fronted on the plaza, and that the board
and skin coverings were in place. He stepped to
the table and then whirled to face the senor ita.

**It may be the end," he said.

*^ Senor! Surely the saints will be kind to us!"

**We are beset by foes, senor it a. I care not, so
that I die fighting as a caballero should. But you,
senorita — "

' * They shall never put me in the foul car eel again,
settor! I swear it! Eather would I die with you!"

ALL AGAINST THEM 283

She took the sheep-skinner's knife from her
bosom, and he caught a glance of it.

**Not that, senorita!" he cried.

'*I have given you my heart, senor. Either we
live together, or we die together!''

CHAPTER XXXVn

THE FOX AT BAY

He darted to the window and glanced out. The
troopers were surrounding the building. He could
see the governor stalking across the plaza^ crying
his orders. Down the San Gabriel trail came the
proud Don Alejandro Vega, to pay his visit to the
governor, and he stopped at the plaza's edge and
began questioning men regarding the cause for the
tumult.

** All are in at the death,'' Senor Zorro said, laugh-
ing. **I wonder where my brave caballeros are,
those who rode with me?"

**You expect their aid?" she asked.

*^Not so, senorita. They would have to stand to-
gether and face the governor, tell him their inten-
tions. It was a lark with them, and I doubt whether
they take it seriously enough to stand by me now.
It is not to be expected. I fight it out alone!"

^^Not alone, senor, when I am by your side!"

He clasped her in his arms, pressed her to him.

*'I would we might have our chance," he said.
*'But it would be folly for you to let my disaster
influence your life. You never have seen my face
even, senorita. You could forget me. You could
walk from this place and surrender, send word to
Don Diego Vega that you will become his bride,

"284

THE FOX AT BAY 285

and the governor then would be forced to release
you and clear your parents of all blame."

^'Ah, senor — "

*^ Think, senorita! Think what it would mean!
His excellency would not dare stand an instant
against a Vega. Your parents would have their
lands restored. You would be the bride of the rich-
est young man in the country! You would have
everything to make you happy — "

*' Everything except love, senor, and without love
the rest is as naught!"

^' Think, senorita, and decide for once and all!
You have but a moment now!"

'^I made my decision long ago, senor. A Puhdo
loves but once, and does not wed where she cannot
love!"

^^Caraf^' he cried; and pressed her close again.

Now there came a battering at the door.

*' Senor Zorro!" Sergeant Gonzales cried.

*^Well, senor?" Zorro asked.

**I have an offer for you from his excellency the
governor. ' '

*'I am listening, loud one!"

**His excellency has no wish to cause your death
or injury to the senorita you have inside with you.
He asks that you open the door and come out with
the lady."

**To what end?" Senor Zorro asked.

*^You shall be given a fair trial, and the senorita
also. Thus you may escape death and receive im-
prisonment instead."

286 THE MAEK OF ZORRO

*^Ha! I have seen samples of his excellency's
fair trials/' Senor Zorro responded. ^' Think you
I am an imbecile ? ' '

*'His excellency bids me say that this is the last
chance, that the offer will not be renewed.''

*^His excellency is wise not to waste breath re-
newing it. He grows fat and his breath is short ! ' '

* ' What can you expect to gain by resistance, save
death?" Gonzales asked. ^'How can you hope to
off stand a score and a half of us?"

*^It has been done before, loud one!"

**We can batter in the door and take you!"

** After a few of you have been stretched lifeless
on the floor," Senor Zorro observed. ^'Who will
be the first through the door, my sergeant!"

^*For the last time — "

**Come in and drink a mug of wine with me," said
the highwayman, laughing.

**Meal mush and goat's milk!" swore Sergeant
Gonzales.

There was quiet then for a time, and Senor Zorro,
glancing through the window cautiously, so as not
to attract a pistol shot, observed that the governor
was in consultation with the sergeant and certain
of the troopers.

The consultation ended, and Seiior Zorro darted
back from the window. Almost immediately, the
attack upon the door began. They were pounding
at it with heavy timbers, trying to smash it down.
Senor Zorro, standing in the middle of the room,
pointed his pistol at the door and fired, and as the

THE FOX AT BAY 287

ball tore through the wood and somebody outside
gave a shriek of pain, he darted to the table and
started loading the pistol again.

Then he hurried across to the door, and observed
the hole where the bullet had gone through. The
plank had been split, and there was quite a crack
in it. Sen or Zorro put the point of his blade at
this crack, and waited.

Again the heavy timber crashed against the door,
and some trooper threw his weight against it, also.
Sehor Zorro 's blade darted through the crack like
a streak of lightning, and came back red, and again
there was a shriek outside. And now a volley of
pistol balls came through the door, but Senor Zorro,
laughing, had sprung back out of harm's way.

*'Well done, sefiorT' Senorita Lolita cried.

^^We shall stamp our mark on several of these
hounds before we are done!'' he replied.

*'I would that I could aid you, senor/'

**You are doing it, senorita. It is your love that
gives me my strength."

*'If I could use a blade — *'

**Ah, senorita, that is for a man to do. Do you
pray that all may be well ! ' '

**And at the last, senor , if it is seen that there is
no hope — ^may I then see your dear face?"

**I swear it, senorita, and feel my arms about you,
and my lips on yours ! Death will not be so bitter
then!"

The attack on the door was renewed. Now pistol
shots were coming through it regularly, and through

288 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

the one open window also, and there was nothing
for Senor Zorro to do except stand in the middle of
the room and wait, his blade held ready. There
would be a lively few minutes, he promised, when
the door was down and they rushed in at him.

It seemed to be giving way now. The senorita
crept close to him, tears streaming down her cheeks,
and grasped him by the arm.

*^You will not forget f she asked.

**I'll not forget, senorita/'

*^Just before they break down the door, senor f
Take me in your arms, and let me see your dear
face, and kiss me ! Then I can die with good grace,
too."

**You must live — "

'^ISTot to be sent to a foul carcely senor! And what
would life be without youf

^^ There is Don Diego — '^

**I think of nobody but you, senor! A Pulido will
know how to die ! And perhaps my death will bring
home to men the perfidy of the governor. Perhaps
it may be of service!"

Again the heavy timber struck against the door.
They could hear his excellency shouting encourage-
ment to the troopers, could hear the natives shriek-
ing, and Sergeant Gonzales crying his orders in his
loud voice.

Senor Zorro hurried to the window again, chanc-
ing a bullet, and glanced out. He saw that half a
dozen troopers had their blades ready, were pre-
pared to rush over the door the moment it was down.

THE FOX AT BAY 289

They would get him — but he would get some of them
first ! Again the ram against the door.

^^It is almost the end, senor!'' the girl whispered.

*^I know it, senoritaT'

**I would we had had better fortune, yet I can
die gladly since this love has been in my life ! Now
— senor — your face and lips! The door — is crash-
ing in ! ' '

She ceased to sob, and lifted her face bravely.
Senor Zorro sighed, and one hand fumbled with the
bottom of his mask.

But suddenly there was a tumult outside in the
plaza, and the battering at the door ceased, and they
could hear loud voices that they had not heard be-
fore.

Senor Zorro let go of his mask, and darted to the
window.

CHAPTER XXXVin

THE MAN UNMASKED

TwENTY-THEEE horsemeii were galloping into the
plaza. The beasts they rode were magnificent, their
saddles and bridles were heavily chased with silver,
their cloaks were of the finest materials, and they
wore hats with plumes, as if this was somewhat of
a dress affair and they wished the world to know it.
Each man sat straight and proud in his saddle, his
blade at his side, and every blade had a jeweled hilt,
being at once serviceable and a rich ornament.

They galloped along the face of the tavern, be-
tween the door and the soldiers who had been batter-
ing it, between the building and the governor and
assembled citizens, and there they turned and stood
their horses side by side, facing his excellency.

*^Wait! There is a better way!" their leader
cried.

*'Ha!" screeched the governor. *'I understand!
Here we have the young men of all the noble families
in the southland. They have come to show their
loyalty by taking this Curse of Capistrano ! I thank
you, caballeros! Yet it is not my wish to have any
of you slain by this fellow. He is not worthy your
blades, senores!

**Do you ride to one side and lend the strength
of your presence, and let my troopers deal with the

290

THE MAN UNMASKED 291

rogne. Again I thank you for this show of loyalty,
for this demonstration that you stand for law and
order and all it means, for constituted authority — ''

** Peace!" their leader cried. ^^Your excellency,
we represent power in this section, do we notF'

*^You do, cahalleros/^ the governor said.

*'Our families say who shall rule, what laws shall
be termed just, do they not!"

*'They have great influence," the governor said.

**You would not care to stand alone against us!"

* * Most assuredly not ! ' ' his excellency cried. * ' But
I pray you, let the troopers get this fellow. It is
not seemly that a cahallero should suffer wound or
death from his blade."

^*It is to be regretted that you do not under-
stand. ' '

'^Understand?" queried the governor, in a ques-
tioning tone, glancing up and down the line of
mounted men.

*^We have taken counsel with ourselves, excel-
lency. We know our strength and power, and we
have decided upon certain things. There have been
things done that we cannot countenance.

''The frailes of the missions have been despoiled
by officials. Natives have been treated worse than
dogs. Even men of noble blood have been robbed
because they have not been friendly to the ruling
powers."

''Cahallero—"

"Peace, excellency, until I have done! This thing
came to a crisis when a hidalgo and his wife and

292 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

daughter ^ere thrown into a car eel by your orders.
Such a thing cannot be countenanced, excellency.

*'And so we have banded ourselves together, and
here we take a hand ! Be it kno^vn that we ourselves
rode with this Senor Zorro when he invaded the
carcel and rescued the prisoners, that we carried
Don Carlos and the Dona Catalina to places of
safety, and that we have pledged our words and
honors and blades that they shall not be persecuted
more/'

''I would say — "

*' Silence, until I have done! We stand together,
and the strength of our united families is behind
us. Call upon your soldiers to attack us, if you
dare ! Every man of noble blood up and down the
length of El Camino Real would flock to our defense,
would unseat you from your office, would see you
humbled! "We await your answer, excellency!''

*'What — ^what would you?" his excellency gasped.

*^ First, proper consideration for Don Carlos Pu-
lido and his family. Xo carcel for them! If you
have the courage to try them for treason, be sure
that we will be on hand at the trial, and deal with
any man who gives perjured testimony, and with
any magistrado who does not conduct himself prop-
erly. We are determined, excellency!"

** Perhaps I was hasty in the matter, but I was
led to believe certain things," the governor said.
*^I grant you your wish. One side now, cdballeros,
while my men get at this rogue in the tavern."

**We are not done!" their leader said. *'We have

THE MAN UNMASKED 293

things to say regarding this Senor Zorro. What
has he done — actually — excellency! Is he guilty of
any treason! He has roVoed no man except those
who robbed the defenseless first. He has whipped
a few unjust persons. He has taken sides with the
persecuted, for which we honor him. To do such
a thing, he took his life in his own hands. He
successfully evaded your soldiers. He resented in-
sults, as any man has the right to do ! ' '

*<What would you!"

'*A complete pardon, here and now, for this man
known as Senor Zorro!"

* * Never ! ' ' the governor cried. ' ' He has affronted
me personally ! He shall die the death ! " He turned
around and saw Don Alejandro Vega standing near
him. ^'Don Alejandro, you are the most influential
man in this south country!" he said. *^You are the
one man against whom even the governor dare not
stand ! You are a man of justice ! Tell these young
cahalleros that what they wish cannot be granted.
Bid them retire to their homes, and this show of
treason will be forgotten."

**I stand behind them!" Don Alejandro thun-
dered.

*^You — ^you stand behind them!"

*^I do, your excellency! I echo every word they
have spoken in your presence. Persecution must
cease. Grant their requests, see that your officials
do right hereafter, return to San Francisco de Asis,
and I take my oath that there shall be no treason
in this southland.

294 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

'*I shall see to it myself. But oppose them, ex-
cellency, and I shall take sides against you, see you
driven from office and ruined, and your foul para-
sites with you!"

^^This terrible, willful southland!'' the governor
cried.

*^Your answer?'' Don Alejandro demanded.

**I can do nothing but agree," the governor said.
**But there is one thing — "

^'Well!"

*^I spare the man's life if he surrenders, but he
must stand trial for the murder of Captain Ramon!"

*' Murder!" queried the leader of the cahalleros.
**It was a duel between gentlemen, excellency.
Senor Zorro resented an insult on the part of the
comandante to the senorita/'

^*Ha! But Eamon was a cdballero — "

*^And so is this Senor Zorro. He told us as much,
and we believe him, for there was no falsehood in
his voice. So it was a duel, excellency, and between
gentlemen, according to the code, and Captain
Eamon was unfortunate that he was not a better man
with a blade. That is understood? Your answer!"

*^I agree!" the governor said weakly. *^I pardon
him, and I go home to San Francisco de Asis, and
persecution ceases in this locality. But I hold Don
Alejandro to his promise — that there be no treason
against me here if I do these things."

*^I have given my word!" Don Alejandro said.

The cahalleros shrieked their happiness and dis-
mounted. They drove the soldiers away from the

THE MAN UNMASKED 295

door, Sergeant Gonzales growling into his mustache
because here was a reward gone glimmering again.

*^ Within there, Senor Zorro!" one cried. '^Have
you heard?"

*^I have heard, cahallero!"

*^Open the door and come out amongst us — a free
man ! ' '

There was a moment's hesitation, and then the bat-
tered door was unbarred and opened, and Senor
Zorro stepped out with the senorita on his arm. He
stopped just in front of the door, removed his som-
brero and bowed low before them.

*^A good day to you, cahallerosf' he cried. *' Ser-
geant, I regret that you have missed the reward, but
I shall see that the amount is placed to the credit
of you and your men with the landlord of the tav-
ern.''

*^By the saints, he is a cahallero!'' Gonzales cried.

*^ Unmask, man!" cried the governor. ''I would
see the features of the person who has fooled my
troopers, has gained caballeros to his banner and
has forced me to make a compromise."

**I fear that you will be disappointed when you
see my poor features," Senor Zorro replied. ''Do
you expect me to look like Satan? Or, can it be
possible, on the other hand, that you believe I have
an angelic countenance?"

He chuckled, glanced down at the Senorita Lolita,
and then put up a hand and tore off his mask.

A chorus of gasps answered the motion, an ex-
plosive oath or two from the soldiers, cries of de-

296 THE MAEK OF ZOEEO

light from the cdballeros, and a screech of mingled
pride and joy from one old hidalgo.

*^Don Diego, my son — ^my son!''

And the man before them seemed to droop sud-
denly in the shoulders, and sighed, and spoke in a
languid voice.

** These be turbulent times! Can a man never
meditate on music and the poets T'

And Don Diego Vega, the Curse of Capistrano,
was clasped for a moment in his father 's arms.

CHAPTER XXXIX

*^MEAL MUSH AND GOAT^S MILK!''

They crowded forward — troopers, natives, cabal-
leroSy surrounding Don Diego Vega and the seno-
rita who clutched at his arm and looked up at him
from proud and glistening eyes.

*^ Explain! Explain !'' they cried.

^*It began ten years ago, when I was but a lad
of fifteen," he said. *'I heard tales of persecution.
I saw my friends, the frailes, annoyed and robbed.
I saw soldiers beat an old native who was my friend.
And then I determined to play this game.

**It would be a difficult game to play, I knew. So
I pretended to have small interest in life, so that
men never would connect my name with that of the
highwayman I expected to become. In secret, I
practiced horsemanship, and learned how to handle
a blade — "

*^By the saints, he did!" Sergeant Gonzales
growled.

*'One half of me was the languid Don Diego you
all knew, and the other half was the Curse of Capis-
trano I hoped one day to be. And then the time
came, and my work began.

'*It is a peculiar thing to explain, senores. The
moment I donned cloak and mask, the Don Diego
part of me fell away. My body straightened, new

297

298 THE llARK OF ZORRO

blood seemed to course through ray veins, my voice
grew strong and firm, fire came to me! And the
moment I removed cloak and mask I was the languid
Don Diego again. Is it not a peculiar thing!

**I had made friends with this great Sergeant
Gonzales, and for a purpose.'^

*'Ha ! I guess the purpose, cahallerosl'^ Gonzales
cried. *'You tired whenever this Senor Zorro was
mentioned, and did not wish to hear of violence and
bloodshed, but always you asked me in what direc-
tion I was going T^dth my troopers — and you went
in the other direction and did your confounded
work."

*^You are an excellent guesser," said Don Diego,
laughing, as did the others about him. **I even
crossed blades with you, so you would not guess I
was Sehor Zorro. You remember the rainy night
at the tavern? I listened to your boasts, went out
and donned mask and cloak, came in and fought you,
escaped, took off mask and cloak, and returned to
jest with you."

*^Ha!"

**I visited the Pulido hacienda as Don Diego, and
a short time later returned as Senor Zorro and held
speech with the senorita here. You almost had me,
sergeant, that night at Fray Felipe's — the first
night, I mean."

^^Ha! You told me there that you had not seen
Senor Zorro."

*^Xor had I! The fray does not keep a mirror,
thinking that it makes for vanity. The other things

**MEAL MUSH AND GOAT'S MILK!" 299

were not difficult, of course. You can easily under-
stand how, as Senor Zorro, I happened to be at my
own house in town when the comandante insulted
the senorita.

**And the senorita must forgive me the deception.
I courted her as Don Diego, and she would have
none of me. Then I tried it as Senor Zorro, and
the saints were kind, and she gave me her love.

*^ Perhaps there was some method in that, also.
For she turned from the wealth of Don Diego Vega
to the man she loved, though she deemed him, then,
an outcast and outlaw.

'*She has showed me her true heart, and I am
rejoiced at it. Your excellency, this senorita is to
become my wife, and I take it you will think twice
before you will annoy her family further.''

His excellency threw out his hands in a gesture
of resignation.

*'It was difficult to fool you all, but it has been
done," Don Diego continued. *^Only years of prac-
tice allowed me to accomplish it. And now Senor
Zorro shall ride no more, for there will be no need,
and moreover a married man should take some care
of his life."

**And what man do I wed?" the Senorita Lolita
asked, blushing because she spoke the Tzords where
all could hear.

**What man do you love?"

*'I had fancied that I loved Senor Zorro, but it
comes to me now that I love the both of them," she
said. **Is it not shameless? But I would rather

300 THE MAEK OF ZORRO

have you Senor Zorro than the old Don Diego I
knew. * '

^*We shall endeavor to establish a golden mean,"
he replied, laughing again. **I shall drop the old
languid ways and change gradually into the man
you would have me. People will say that marriage
made a man of me!'*

He stooped and kissed her there before them all.

**Meal mush and goat's milk!'' swore Sergeant
•Gonzales.

THE END

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THE DUKE OF CHIMNEY BUTTE

When Jerry Lambert, "the Duke," attempts to safeguard the
cattle ranch of Vesta Philbrook from thieving neighbors, his work is
appallingly handicapped because of Grace Kerr, one of the chief agi-
tators, and a deadly enemy of Vesta's. A stirring tale of brave deeds,
^im-play and a love that shines above all.

fHE FLOCKMASTER OF POISON CREEK

John Mackenzie trod the trail from Jasper to the great sheep
cotmtry where fortunes were being made by the flock-masters.
Shepherding was not a peaceful pursuit in those bygone days. Ad-
venture met him at every turn — there is a girl of course — men fight
their best fights for a woman— it is an epic of the sheeplands.

THE LAND OF LAST CHANCE

Jim Timberlake and Capt. David Scott waited with restless
thousands on the Oklahoma line for the signal to dash across the
border. How the city of Victory arose overnight on the plains, how
people savagely defended their claims against the "sooners; " how
good men and bad played politics, makes a strong story of growth
and American initiative.

TRAIL'S END

Ascalon was the end of the trail for thirsty cowboys who gave
vent to their pent-up feelings without restraint. Calvin Morgan was
not concerned with its wickedness until Seth Craddock's malevolence
directed itself against him. H3 did not emerge from the maelstrom
until he had obliterated every vestige of lawlessness, and assured
himself ot the safety of a certain dark-eyed girl.

Ask for Complete free list of G. & D. Popular Copyfrighted Fiction

GROSSET & DUNLAP, Publishers, NEW YORK

CHARLES ALDEN SELTZER'S
WESTERN NOVELS

May be had wherever books are sold. Ask for Grosset and Dunlap's list

THE WAY OF THE BUFFALO

Jim Cameron builds a railroad adjacent to Ballantine's property, even
though Ballantine threatens to kill him the day he runs it.

BRASS COMMANDMENTS

Stephen Lannon writes six commandments over six loaded cartridges set
out where the evil men who threaten him and the girl he loves, may see them.
WEST !

When Josephine Hamilton went West to visit Betty, she met " Satan " Lat*
timer, ruthless, handsome, fascinating, who taught her some things.

SQUARE DEAL SANDERSON

Square Deal Sanderson rode onto the Double A just as an innocent man
'was about to be hanged and Mary Bransford was in danger of losing her
property,

" BEAU " RAND

^^ Bristling with quick, decisive action, and absorbing in its love theme,
' Beau " Rand, mirrors the West of the hold-up days in remarkable fashion.
THE BOSS OF THE LAZY Y

Calumet Marston, daredevil, returns to his father's ranch to find it is being
run by a young woman who remains in charge until he accepts sundry
conditions.

**DRAG" HARLAN

Harlen establishes himself as the protector of Barbara Morgan and deals
out punishment to the girl's enemies through the lightning flash of drawn
guns,

THE TRAIL HORDE

How Kane Lawler fought the powerful interests that were trying to crush
him and Ruth Hamlin, the woman he loved, makes intensely interesting

reading.

THE RANCHMAN

The story of a two-fisted product of the west, pitted against a rascally spoils-
man, who sought to get control of Marion Harlan and her ranch.

*' FIREBRAND" TREVISON

The encroachment of the railroad brought Rosalind Benham— and also re-
sults in a clash between Corrigan and "Firebrand" that ends when the better
man wins.

THE RANGE BOSS

Ruth Harkness comes West to the ranch her uncle left her, ,Rex Rander-
son, her range boss, rescues her from a mired buckboard, and is in love with
her from that moment on.

THE VENGEANCE OF JEFFERSON GAWNE

A story of the Southwest that tells how the law came to a cow-town, domin-
ated by a cattle thief. There is a wonderful girl too, who wins the love of
Jefferson Gawne,

GROSSET & DUNLAP, Publishers, NEW YORK

EDGAR RICE BURROUGH'S
NOVELS

May be had wherever books are sold. Ask for Grosset and Dunlap's list

BANDIT OF HELL'S BEND, THE

CAVE GIRL, THE

LAND THAT TIME FORGOT, THE

TARZAN AND THE ANT MEN

TARZAN AND THE GOLDEN LION

TARZAN THE TERRIBLE

TARZAN THE UNTAMED

JUNGLE TALES OF TARZAN

AT THE EARTH'S CORE

THE MUCKER

A PRINCESS OF MARS

THE GODS OF MARS

THE WARLORD OF MARS

THUVIA, MAID OF MARS

THE CHESSMEN OF MARS

GROSSET & DUNLAP, Publishers, NEW YORK

JAMES OLIVER CURWOOD'S

STORIES OF ADVENTURE

Kay b6 tiad wherever books are sold. Ask for Grosset & Dunlap's list ^

THE COUNTRY BEYOND

THE FLAMING FOREST

THE VALLEY OF SILENT MEN

THE RIVER'S END

THE GOLDEN SNARE

NOMADS OF THE NORTH

KAZAN

BAREE, SON OF KAZAN

THE COURAGE OF CAPTAIN PLUM

THE DANGER TRAIL

THE HUNTED WOMAN

THE FLOWER OF THE NORTH

THE GRIZZLY KING

ISOBEL

THE WOLF HUNTERS

THE GOLD HUNTERS

THE COURAGE OF MARGE O'DOONE

BACK TO GOD'S COUNTRY

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GROSSET & DUNLAP, Publishers, NEW YORK

ZANE GREY'S NOVELS

Way be had wherever bocks are sold. Ask for Grosset and Dunlap's list.

THE CALL OF THE CANYON
WANDERER OF THE WASTELAND

TO THE LAST MAN
THE MYSTERIOUS RIDER
THE MAN OF THE FOREST
THE DESERT OF "WHEAT
THE U. P. TRAIL

WILDFIRE

THE BORDER LEGION

THE RAINBOW TRAIL

THE HERITAGE OF THE DESERT

RIDERS OF THE PURPLE SAGE

THE LIGHT OF WESTERN STARS

THE LAST OF THE PLAINSMEN

THE LONE STAR RANGER

DESERT GOLD

BETTY ZANE

THE DAY OF THE BEAST

* * * * Tlli ^ 0

LAST OF THE GREAT SCOUTS

The life story of " Buffalo Bill " by his sister Helen Cody Wet-
more, with Foreword and conclusion by Zane Grey.

ZANE GREY'S BOOKS FOR BOYS

KEN WARD IN THE JUNGLE
THE YOUNG LION HUNTER

THE YOUNG FORESTER
THE YOUNG PITCHER
THE SHORT STOP

THE RED-HEADED OUTFIELD AND OTHER
BASEBALL STORIES

GROSSET k DUNLAP, Publishers, NEW YORK

JACKSON GREGORY'S NOVELS

May be had wherever books are sold. Ask for Grosset and Dunlap'& list

DAUGHTER OF THE SUN

A tale of Aztec treasure — of American adventurers, who seek it — of
2Ioraida, who hides it

1 TIMBER-WOLF

i This is a story of action and of the wide open, dominated always by

' the heroic figure of Timber- Wolf.

THE EVERLASTING WHISPER

.J The story of a strong man's struggle ageunst savage nature and humanity,

and of a beautiful girl's regeneration from a spoiled child of wealth into at
courageous strong-willed womaiu

DESERT VALLEY

A college professor sets out with his daughter to find gold. They meet
a rancher who loses his heart, and becomes involved in a feud.

MAN TO MAN

How Steve won his game and the girl he loved, is a story filled with
breathless situations.

THE BELLS OF SAN JUAN

Dr. Virginia Page is forced to go with the sheriff on a night journey^
into the strongholds of a lawless band.

JUDITH OF BLUE LAKE RANCH

Judith Sanford pau^t owner of a cattle ranch realizes she is being robbed
by her foreman. With the help of Bud Lee, she checkmates Trevor's scheme.

THE SHORT CUT

Wayne is suspected of killing his brother after a quarrel. Financial com-
plications, a horse-race and beautiful Wanda, make up a thrilling romance.

THE JOYOUS TROUBLE MAKER

A reporter sets up housekeeping close to Beatrice's Ranch much to her
chagrin. There is " another man " who complicates matters.

SIX FEET FOUR

Beatrice Waver ly is robbed of $5,000 and suspicion fastens upon Beck
Thornton, but she soon realizes he is not guilty.

WOLF BREED

No Luck Drennan, a woman hater and sharp of tongue, finds a match
m Ygeme whose clever fencing vfins the admiration and love of tiie ** Lone
WoU."

Grosset & Dunlap, Publishers, New York

THE NOVELS OF TEMPLE BAILEY

May be had wherever books are sold. Ask for Grosset & Dynlap's list

" Although my ancestry is all of New England, I was born
in the old town of Petersburg, Virginia. I went later to
Richmond and finally at the age of five to Washington, D.
C, returning to Richmond for a few years in a girl's school,
which was picturesquely quartered in General Lee's
mansion.

PEACOCK FEATHERS

The eternal conflict between wealth and love. Jerry, the idealist who
is poor, loves Mimi, a beautihil, spoiled society girl.

THE DIM LANTERN

The romance of little Jane Barnes who is loved by two men.

THE GAY COCKADE

Unusual short stories where Miss Bailey shows her keen knowledge
of character emd environment, and how romaince comes to different people.

THE TRUMPETER SWAN

Randy Paine comes back from France to the monotony of every-day
affairs. But the girl he loves shows him the beauty in the common-place.

THE TIN SOLDIER

A man who wishes to serve his country, but is bound by a lie he can-
not in honor break — that's Derry. A girl who loves him, shares his humilia-
tion and helps him to win — that's Jean. Their love is the story.

MISTRESS ANNE

A girl in Maryland teaches school, and believes that work is worthy
•ervice. Two men come to the little community ; one it weak, the other
strong, and both need Anne.

jCONTRARY MARY

^ An old-fashioned love story that is nevertheless modem.

GLORY OF YOUTH

A novel that deals with a question, old and yet ever new — how far
should £in engagement of marriage bind two persons who discover they no
longer love.

Grosset & Duxlap, Publishers, New York

MARGARET PEDLER'S NOVELS

May be had wherever books are sold. Ask for Grosset & Dunlap's list

RED ASHES

A gripping story of a doctor who failed in a crucial opera-
tion— and had only himself to blame. Could the woman he loved
forgive him ?

THE BARBARIAN LOVER

A love story based on the creed that the only important things
between birth and death are the courage to face life and the love
to sweeten it.

THE MOON OUT OF REACH

Nan Davenant's problem is one that many a girl has faced—
her own happiness or her father's bond.

THE HOUSE OF DREAMS-COME-TRUE

How a man and a woman fulfilled a gypsy's strange prophecy.

THE HERMIT OF FAR END

How love made its way into a walled-in house and a walled-in
heart.

THE LAMP OF FATE

The story of a woman who tried to take all and give nothing.

THE SPLENDID FOLLY

Do you believe that husbands and wives should have no se-
crets from each other ?

THE VISION OF DESIRE

An absorbing romance written with all that sense of feminine
tenderness that has given the novels of Margaret Pedler their
universal appeaL

GROSSET & DUNLAP, Publishers, NEW YORK

THE NOVELS OF

GRACE LIVINGSTON HILL

(MRS. LUTZ)

May be had wherever books are sold. Ask for Grosset & Dunlap's list

BEST MAN, THE

CITY OF FIRE, THE

CLOUDY JEWEL

DAWN OF THE MORNING

ENCHANTED BARN, THE

EXIT BETTY

FINDING OF JASPER HOLT, THE

GIRL FROM MONTANA, THE

LO, MICHAEL!

MAN OF THE DESERT, THE

MARCIA SCHUYLER

MIRANDA

MYSTERY OF MARY, THE

OBSESSION OF VICTORIA GRACEN, THE

PHOEBE DEANE

RED SIGNAL, THE

SEARCH, THE

STORY OF A WHIM, THE

TOMORROW ABOUT THIS TIME

TRYST, THE

VOICE IN THE WILDERNESS, A

WITNESS, THE

Ask for Complete free list of G. & D. Popular Copyrighted Fiction

GROSSET k DUNLAP, Publishers, NEW YORK

RUBY M. AYRES' NOVELS

May be had wherever books are sold. Ask for Grosset & Dunlap's fist

THE LITTL'ST LOVER

CANDLE LIGHT

THE MAN WITHOUT A HEART

THE ROMANCE OF A ROGUE

THE MATHERSON MARRIAGE

RICHARD CHATTERTON

A BACHELOR HUSBAND

THE SCAR

THE MARRIAGE OF BARRY WICKLOW

THE UPHILL ROAD

WINDS OF THE WORLD

THE SECOND HONEYMOON

THE PHANTOM LOVER

GROSSET & DUNLAP, Publishers, NEW YORK

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